Five injured after car ferry crashes into wall in Gran Canaria

A car ferry has crashed into the harbour wall in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria on Friday evening, the cause of which is being blamed on engine failure.

Thirteen people were treated at the scene after the ferry crashed into the wall, five were taken to local hospitals for further treatment. One person was understood to have required further treatment for a broken bone.

Shortly after the crash it emerged that fuel from the ship was believed to have been leaking into the sea. A small oil slick was spotted, however it is expected to clear by Sunday. Water activities in the area have been prohibited.

The district of Jinámar was without water for a while after the incident, due to damage to a water supply pipe to the local desalination plant. The plant now is back online and operational.

The vessel is one of Naviera Armas’ newest ships, having been built and brought into service in 2004. The Volcan de Tamasite, the one involved in Friday’s accident, can carry 1,500 passengers and 300 vehicles and operates at 23 knots.

All passengers and crew have been accounted for, and the ferry has been brought into the harbour for inspection.

The ferry operator has warned that there may be schedule changes due to the temporary suspension of service of one ship on this route, however they are trying to reposition another vessel to ensure service is maintained.

Passengers on board the craft who have been stranded were placed into temporary accommodation whilst alternative travel arrangements were made.

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