Norwegian authorities are investigating the collision of three ships in one of Norway's coastal fjords that occurred on the morning of Monday, October 5, 2026. This incident woke residents of a coastal town in Norway with a loud noise identified as the sound of the ships colliding. In this collision, one of the ships took on water, and three ships were damaged.
Details of the collision in Ålesund
The collision occurred at 1:30 AM near Ålesund. Two ships were heading north while the third ship was going south. The police reported poor weather conditions and darkness, but a video released by a Norwegian network shows that nighttime conditions were normal. The loud sound of the ships colliding is clearly audible.
Media reports indicate that three crew members are suspected of careless navigation; however, authorities stated that investigations are still ongoing. Currently, it is unclear which ship collided first and how the three ships were involved in the incident. About 30 crew members were present among the three ships, and while no injuries have been reported for the crew, all ships have sustained significant damage.
Rescue efforts and the status of the ships
An emergency call was made to the rescue agency, and one of the rescue boats was dispatched to the scene. The Navy also sent the vessel "Fridtjof Nansen" to the location, and a rescue helicopter was seen in the sky using its spotlight. Local emergency services also responded from the shore to the incident site, but there was no need for evacuation.
The Norwegian Safety Agency reported that two ships, "Bergfjord" and "Hav Frakt," have been detained and require repairs. The third ship, a small tanker named "Zantia," also sustained damage, but inspectors from DNV informed the authorities that its hull is intact, and it was allowed to resume its journey to Finland, where further inspections will be conducted.
The ship "Bergfjord," a cargo vessel measuring 88 meters long and registered in the Netherlands, has sustained serious damage to its bow. Images released by Norwegian media clearly show this damage, and it is reported that this ship was taking on water at the front and was ordered to head to the dock.
The cargo ship "Hav Frakt," which is also 88 meters long and registered in the Faroe Islands, has also been damaged and was ordered to head to the dock.
Investigations are ongoing, and authorities have stated that there are no signs of intoxication among the crew, but alcohol tests and other examinations have been conducted. Electronic data is being reviewed, and interviews with the crew are underway. The accident investigation board has stated that it will review the available information and determine whether a full investigation is necessary.
