TMS attributes Vilamoura blast to 'unidentified explosive device' as maritime incidents mount

In a recent update, the company reported that Vilamoura, which suffered an explosion off the coast of Libya, safely arrived in Lakonikos Bay, Greece, on 1 July. The Greek shipowner noted the crew is in good health. While the engineroom is flooded, all other compartments remain intact and in good condition.

TMS said preliminary findings from the investigation clearly indicate the damage – including the side shell plating fracture and engineroom flooding – was caused by an external source, “an unidentified explosive device.” Maritime security advisors had earlier suggested the blast may have been caused by a limpet mine.

TMS rejects ’shadow fleet’ allegations

In addition to providing an update on the incident, TMS Tankers strongly denied claims linking Vilamoura to the so-called shadow fleet – a term often used for tankers operating in sanctioned trades.

These claims “are entirely false and misleading,” the company said in its statement.

Security experts have drawn comparisons between the Vilamoura incident and previous explosions involving tankers in the Mediterranean. Vessels that have recently called at Russian ports appear to be at increased risk of suspected limpet mine attacks.

Citing MarineTraffic data, Reuters reported Vilamoura had recently visited two Russian ports: Ust-Luga in the Baltic Sea and Novorossiysk in the Black Sea.

However, the Greek owner emphasised its full compliance with international regulations, “TMS Τankers is fully committed to strict adherence to all applicable international sanctions and regulatory frameworks,” the company stated. “As part of our standard procedures, our Insurance Department is conducting thorough sanctions checks through external advisors/lawyers prior to any vessel’s port call at any area which is subject to EU/US/UN/UK sanctions.”

Separate incident reported 

Meanwhile, on 6 July, Russia’s Ministry of Transport reported an ammonia leak from Eco Wizard, an LPG carrier owned by Harry Vafias-led StealthGas, at the port of Ust-Luga.

MarineTraffic data showed the vessel remained moored at the port as of late 8 July. All 23 crew members were evacuated, and Russian authorities have launched an investigation into the incident.

According to Bloomberg, the leak was triggered by two explosions. Russian authorities reported no injuries, while loading operations were immediately suspended as a precautionary measure.