The watch officer aboard the NCL Salten, a Cypriot-flagged container ship, admitted to police that he was asleep during the critical moment when the vessel ran aground in Byneset, near Trondheim, Norway. The incident occurred on Thursday morning, just meters from a local resident's house. The 135-meter ship had 16 crew members onboard and was making its way through the Trondheim Fjord to Orkanger when it deviated off its course.
According to police reports, the Ukrainian watch officer, in his 30s, has been charged with negligent navigation, and authorities are closely examining whether the crew adhered to mandated work and rest hours. The vessel missed crashing into a residence by mere feet, sparking a complex salvage operation that has yet to succeed in refloating it.
Kjetil Bruland Sørensen, a prosecutor in the Trøndelag Police District, confirmed that the officer, responsible for steering the ship, failed to alter its trajectory as it entered the fjord. Fortunately, no injuries were reported during the incident, which logistics company NCL described as "serious" and expressed relief that no harm came to individuals.
Witnesses, including local resident Johan Helberg, expressed shock upon seeing the massive ship looming so close to their home. Helberg recounted the surreal experience, describing the moment he looked out his window and saw the ship nearly parked in his front garden, just five meters from entering his bedroom. A panicked neighbor alerted him to the situation, while another local noted the terrifying sight of the ship approaching.
The NCL Salten had a history of running aground, previously managing to free itself earlier this year. As investigations continue, the company has pledged its cooperation with authorities to ensure a safe salvage operation.
