Photo: jv.dk

The Russian four-masted barque Kruzenshtern has been forced to withdraw from the Falmouth Tall Ships Regatta, after it was involved in the sinking of a tug in the Danish port of Esbjerg last week. The Kruzenshtern, ex-Padua, was built in 1926 and is one of the largest tall ships in service.  The Packet  reports that the barque was permitted to continue its journey to Germany, but an investigation into the sinking has been launched by authorities.

On August 4, the tugs Dive Master and Svitzer Helios were assisting the Kruzenshtern as it departed the port of Esbjerg.  A hawser between the barque and the tug Dive Master fouled on being released, pulling the tug toward the sailing ship. Diver Master capsized and sank in 10 metres of water near Fano Island.  The tug crew was rescued without serious injury.  Thanks to Ulrich Rudofsky for contributing to this post.