The twin-hulled heavy lift vessel VB-10000 moored at the Port of Fernandina, Florida on July 3 for final modifications and checks prior to departing for St. Simons Sound, Georgia in mid-July.
The two 255-foot tall gantries will use lengths of chain to cut the capsized vessel Golden Ray into eight pieces and lift them onto barges for transportation to Louisiana for recycling.
The Golden Ray was carrying about 4,200 vehicles when it lost stability and grounded as it departed the Port of Brunswick back in September 2019. All vehicles remain inside the ship’s cargo holds.
An environmental protection barrier has been constructed around the wreck to mitigate pollution to the surrounding waters during the cutting and removal operation.
Golden Ray’s insurer North P&I has estimated the gross claim figure wreck to be in excess of $400 million, making it one of the biggest claims ever handled by the group.
BBN will keep you updated this month on the progress of heavy lift vessel VB-10000.
