On February 15, 2025, the cargo vessel MSC Baltic III ran aground near Lark Harbour, Newfoundland, causing significant alarm and triggering immediate rescue efforts. This incident unfolded early Saturday morning when the ship lost engine power shortly before daybreak, prompting the crew to issue a mayday call.
Thankfully, all 20 crew members aboard the vessel were successfully rescued thanks to the swift actions of various emergency response teams. The rescue operation involved multiple agencies including the Canadian Coast Guard and the 103 Search and Rescue Squadron from Gander, Newfoundland. The CCGS Henry Larsen was deployed to the scene along with search aircraft, including the CC-130H Hercules and Cormorant helicopters which quickly transported rescuers to the site.
Reports indicate the MSC Baltic III was approximately 207 meters long and was flying under the flag of Liberia. The cargo ship was en route to Corner Brook at the time of the incident. Eyewitness accounts described the dramatic scene as rescue crews battled challenging weather conditions, with reports of 5-6 meter waves and winds gusting up to 120 km/h.
Premier Andrew Furey spoke out after the rescue, thanking first responders for their bravery and dedication. “Thanks to the first responders who always take quick action, regardless of the time or the weather, all 20 crew members are safe,” he stated. His sentiments reflected the feelings of many who were anxiously monitoring the situation.
MP Gudie Hutchings also voiced her support on social media, saying, “Our thoughts and prayers go out to the crew of the MSC Baltic III, SAR personnel and all responders.” Her words echoed the public's concern and gratitude toward the rescuers who worked tirelessly under difficult circumstances.
It was reported on social media just after 10:00 AM local time by NL Maritime, confirming every single crew member was safely evacuated from the MSC Baltic III. Initial reports suggested some crew may have been injured, but specific details about their conditions remain scarce as rescue crews assessed the situation.
Just before the grounding, the vessel’s mayday alert indicated it was adrift and losing power—a situation many small boat operators have certainly experienced but rarely do they find themselves encountering conditions as severe. The incident also brought to mind the harsh realities of navigation along the Newfoundland coastline, especially during winter months when storms can emerge rapidly.
The vessel got trapped just off Cedar Cove, in proximity to Lark Harbour. The Coast Guard’s response included thorough preparations for high-stakes rescues, especially with weather warnings indicating severe conditions were imminent. Search and rescue personnel rapidly mobilized to the scene. By around 9:15 AM the Cormorant helicopter had arrived, and the Hercules followed shortly after, with the latter flying from Greenwood, NS.
The coordination among the different response teams displayed efficiency and dedication, as they navigated the high winds and hazardous sea conditions. Witnesses noted the dramatic efforts to rescue the crew, and as the events unfolded, the sense of community support via social media became palpable. Many shared their thoughts and exchanged prayers for the safety of all involved.
This incident serves as another reminder of the perilous nature of maritime operations, particularly along the breathtaking yet unpredictable coasts of Newfoundland. Local communities remain closely tied to the ocean, and incidents like this put their resilience and preparedness to the test.
The MSC Baltic III’s fate is still undetermined; recovery and salvage operations will be evaluated after ensuring the crew's health and safety are prioritized. Local authorities are expected to release more details as they assess the aftermath of this grounding. Residents and stakeholders will likely demand answers about the cargo vessel's grounding as investigations commence.
While the harsh weather conditions are often cited as factors for accidents at sea, the timely response from search and rescue teams undoubtedly saved lives this past Saturday. Each crew member's safety highlighted the importance of coordination and preparedness among maritime rescue operations.