Ships join forces to come to Valiant’s aid
CHANNEL Seaways’ cargo ship, Valiant, was escorted into Guernsey harbour by a number of vessels on Sunday after it suffered a partial loss of steering and a reduction in power during a journey from Poole to Guernsey.
She is now being repaired at St Sampson’s.
Emergency steering was engaged before the crew of the 75m.-long vessel called the Harbour Office to request assistance at 3.15am on Sunday.
Guernsey Harbours’ work boat Sarnia left St Peter Port just after 8am and headed north of Sark to the Great Russel to aid the Valiant in its approach.
With Sarnia providing support, the Valiant arrived east of Fermain Bay before midday where Guernsey pilot Les Dorey, delivered by pilot boat Golden Spur, took control.
Channel Seaways managing director Bruno Kay-Mouat said the situation had been kept under control.
‘There was no risk to crew at this stage and it was deemed safe to bring it into port.’
Aid from Jersey then arrived in the form of the tug, Duke of Normandy, to help guide the ship into mooring.
Photographer Tony Rive captured the event from the land.
‘Once all vessels arrived outside St Peter Port Harbour, a tow-line was attached from the bow of Valiant onto the Jersey tug and Duke of Normandy headed into the harbour with Valiant in tow.’
Its cargo was then unloaded at the number four berth so repairs could begin.
Mr Kay-Mouat said that the ship, which was on charter, had then been worked on by its owner’s technicians.
‘The ship then sailed from St Peter Port to St Sampson’s.
‘The steering gear has been rectified and further repairs are taking place on one of the Schottels.’
The company secured an interim charter vessel to ensure its scheduled shipments of general goods, including items as varied as food and building materials, will continue as planned.
Repairs are under way and the Valiant should be back in action within a few days.
