Introduction
On 1 January 2026, the Panama-flagged bulk carrier “CSE Prosperity Express” ran aground off the coast of Hualien, Taiwan, amid severe weather conditions. The incident, which occurred as the vessel approached Hualien Port, underscores the persistent risks posed to maritime operations in the region, particularly during the winter monsoon season. This article provides an overview of the incident, the vessel’s particulars, and the ongoing rescue and recovery efforts.
The Incident: How “CSE Prosperity Express” Ran Aground
The “CSE Prosperity Express,” a bulk carrier operated by China Steel Corporation, was en route from Thathong Anchorage, Thailand, to Hualien Port, Taiwan. As the vessel neared its destination, it encountered strong northeasterly monsoon winds and heavy seas. While waiting for pilotage to berth at Hualien Port, the ship suffered a main engine failure, rendering it unable to manoeuvre. The adverse weather conditions caused the vessel to drift towards the coast, ultimately grounding itself on the beach north of the Hualien River estuary.
In response to the emergency, the Hualien Port Authority dispatched the tugboat Taiwangang 13205 to assist. However, the rescue operation was complicated when the tug became entangled in the bulk carrier’s lines and lost propulsion, resulting in the tug also being driven onto the shoreline. The situation escalated as rough seas and high surf made it impossible for rescue teams to reach the stranded tug by boat. A Black Hawk helicopter from Taiwan’s Air Service Corps was deployed, successfully airlifting all five tug crew members to safety, including one who suffered a severe head laceration.
Emergency Response and Crew Safety
Despite the challenging conditions, the emergency response was swift and effective. Approximately 40 personnel from the Coast Guard, local rescue services, and the National Airborne Service Corps coordinated the rescue efforts. All 17 crew members aboard the “CSE Prosperity Express”—12 Taiwanese and five Filipinos—were reported safe and not in immediate danger. The vessel remained aground, awaiting further recovery operations. A larger salvage tug was dispatched from Keelung Port and was expected to arrive later in the evening to assist with the refloating and docking of the bulk carrier.
General Particulars of “CSE Prosperity Express”
For those in the maritime industry and shipping enthusiasts, understanding the vessel’s specifications is crucial. Below are the general particulars of the “CSE Prosperity Express”:
- Vessel Name: CSE Prosperity Express
- IMO Number: 9345647
- Type: Bulk Carrier (Handysize)
- Flag: Panama
- Year Built: 2006
- Owner/Manager: China Steel Corporation, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Shipyard: Imabari Shipbuilding Co. Ltd., Imabari, Japan
- Length Overall (LOA): 169.26 metres
- Beam (Width): 27.2 metres
- Summer Deadweight Tonnage (DWT): 28,350 tonnes
- Gross Tonnage (GT): 16,962
- Draft (Summer): 9.8 metres
- Classification Society: Bureau Veritas.
The vessel is designed to carry bulk commodities and is equipped with five cargo holds and five hatches. Its robust construction and operational profile make it a typical representative of the Handysize bulk carrier segment.
Environmental and Operational Impact
Authorities have taken measures to prevent environmental pollution, including deploying oil booms and absorbent pads around grounded vessels. The crew of the stranded tug managed to close fuel tank valves to minimise the risk of diesel leakage. Salvage operations are ongoing, with experts assessing the best approach to refloat the “CSE Prosperity Express” while ensuring the safety of the crew and the protection of the local marine environment.
Conclusion
The grounding of the “CSE Prosperity Express” off the coast of Hualien highlights the significant challenges that severe weather poses to maritime operations. This incident emphasizes the need for strong emergency response protocols and the resilience of maritime professionals. As salvage efforts are underway, the priority is on ensuring the safety of the crew, protecting the environment, and ultimately recovering the vessel.
For the latest updates on maritime incidents and vessel movements, stay tuned in maritime-hub.com or follow the link
References:
- Rescue Operations Underway After Bulker Grounds in Taiwan
- WATCH | Taiwan sends aerial help for tugboat crew
- Video: Taiwan Rescues Crew from Tug Sent to Rescue Grounded Bulker
- CSE PROSPERITY EXPRESS – Bulk carrier | IMO 9345647, Built 2006
Two Aground at Hualien – Shipwreck Log
