In response to a maritime incident in the North Sea, involving a collision between the British-flagged vessel Verity and the cargo ship Polesie, passengers were informed that their ship Iona (P&O UK) has joined the search and rescue efforts for the individuals in distress.
The collision occurred ~14 mi/23 km southwest of Helgoland Island (Germany).
MS Verity (300-ft vessel/2001-built/IMO 9229178) was transporting steel from Bremen Germany, to Port Immingham (Lincolnshire, England) when it sank following the collision. The accident resulted in one fatality and four crew members still missing. Two survivors have been recovered from the water. Seven individuals were on board Verity at the time of the collision.
Rescue operations are ongoing in challenging conditions, with strong 30 mph winds, 10 ft waves, and reduced visibility due to fog in the North Sea. The P&O UK's ship Iona is prepared to provide medical care to any individuals rescued from the water.
As per the German Sea Rescue Society, one body has been recovered, two individuals have been rescued, and four crew members remain missing.
MS Polesie (2009-built bulk carrier/IMO 9488097/Bahamas-flagged) was en route from Hamburg to La Coruna Spain. The 625 ft vessel remained afloat with 22 people on board after the collision.
MS Iona (passenger capacity 5200/max 6264 plus 1800 crew) has joined several other vessels, including the German salvage/rescue ships Hermann Marwede (IMO 9282601) and Bernhard Gruben (MMSI 211235240) in the search and rescue operation.
MS Verity's owner (Faversham Ships Ltd, based on the Isle of Wight) has refrained from providing any comment on the situation.