Greek-flagged tanker hit by unidentified object outside CPC terminal at Novorossiysk, minor damage, operator says

Greek tanker hit by unidentified object near CPC terminal, suffers minor damage, operator says

Incident Overview and Details

Initial Report of the Incident

ATHENS, March 14 (Reuters) - A Greek-flagged tanker, the Maran Homer, was hit by an unidentified object on Saturday, as it was awaiting orders to enter the Caspian Pipeline Consortium (CPC) Terminal at Novorossiysk, its manager Maran Tankers said.

Location and Timing

The vessel, which was sailing outside Russian territorial waters and expected to receive a cargo of Kazakh crude oil, was hit at approximately 4:35 a.m. local time (0135 GMT).

Damage Assessment and Crew Safety

"There were no injuries and the crew is safe," Maran Tankers said in a statement, adding that only minor material damage was noted to the ship's deck and equipment.

Aftermath and Official Statements

Departure and Company Update

The tanker has since departed Novorossiysk, the company said.

Kazakhstan’s Response

Kazakhstan’s energy ministry said no Kazakh oil was on board at the time. The vast bulk of Kazakhstan’s crude exports flow through the CPC.

Reporting Credits

(Reporting by Renee Maltezou; Editing by Toby Chopra and Louise Heavens)