We have learned of an incident involving the vessel VIKING MERLIN, a Liberia flag, 2013 built, 18,485gt Fully Cellular Containership, while in port at Philadelphia, laden with several hundred reefer containers of various fruit & vegetables. The vessel is involved in regular traffic between Caribbean islands and mainland USA.

It is reported that a fire broke out in the engine room, disabling the vessel’s electrical system and one boiler, so that she was unable to power the refer containers onboard.

VIKING MERLIN will remain at Philadelphia for at least two weeks, while all perishable cargo has been discharged for on-carriage to New York.

It is possible that shipowners will declare General Average and, if W.E. Cox Claims Group can be of assistance in providing guarantees, arranging surveys, adjusting potential losses or undertaking recovery please do not hesitate to contact us.