In brief
The incident unfolded when a large container ship, the NCL Salten, veered off course in Trondheim Fjord, crashing into a local resident's garden. The watch officer confessed to sleeping while on duty, prompting an investigation into potential breaches of maritime regulations.
In a shocking incident in Byneset, near Trondheim, Norway, the watch officer of a cargo ship has been charged with negligent navigation after the vessel crashed into a resident's front garden. The 135-meter-long ship, the NCL Salten, missed a nearby home by mere meters, causing significant disruption but, fortunately, no injuries.The 30-something Ukrainian officer admitted during police questioning that he fell asleep while on watch, leading the ship to run aground early Thursday morning. Local authorities are now examining whether the crew adhered to required working and rest hours during their voyage.The Cypriot-flagged vessel, which had 16 crew members on board, was en route to Orkanger when it deviated dangerously off course in the Trondheim Fjord. The logistics company NCL, which chartered the ship, called the situation a "serious incident" and expressed relief that there were no casualties. They confirmed that efforts to refloat the ship have yet to succeed, indicating ongoing concerns for both the safety of the salvage operation and the surrounding community.Johan Helberg, who owns the property nearly demolished by the ship, recounted his shock upon seeing the enormous vessel parked in his garden. Describing the moment as "unreal," he noted that it was just five meters away from his bedroom. Helberg's neighbor, who witnessed the ship's approach, called the experience "terrifying," emphasizing the surreal quality of seeing a ship so close to their home at dawn.In a similar incident earlier this year, the NCL Salten had previously run aground but had managed to free itself. The continuous challenges faced during maritime operations highlight the importance of crew vigilance and adherence to protocol, particularly in busy waterways like those surrounding Norway.
