Ultra Galaxy Cargo Ship Breaks Apart on South Africa's Coast

The Ultra Galaxy, a general cargo vessel flagged in Panama, has broken into four pieces after being stranded on its side on South Africa’s west coast since early July. The South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) has confirmed that the incident has resulted in an oil spill.

Around 125 local community members have been mobilized to assist in the cleanup efforts.

The vessel was subjected to intense conditions, with swells reaching up to 6.8 meters every 15 seconds. The relentless impact caused the accommodation block to break off, leading to significant cracks in the hull, particularly in the forward section near the accommodation.

Built in 2008, the 13,800 dwt Ultra Galaxy is owned by Fujita Shoji and managed by Ultrabulk, a dry bulk operator based in Denmark. At the time of its distress call on July 8, the ship was heading to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.