Russian ship Kuzma Minin no longer grounded but still stuck in Falmouth

The crew of the Kuzma Minin are said to be "in good stead". Credit: ITV West Country

It’s been nearly two months since the Kuzma Minin ran aground in Falmouth but the Russian-registered cargo vessel is still yet to leave the town.

On 18 December 2018, the 16,000-tonne ship ran aground in stormy seas and 65mph winds.

After a nine-hour long rescue mission, led by Her Majesty’s Coastguard, the vessel was pulled free from the sand and rocks of Gyllyngvase beach.

The plight of the Kuzma Minin proved quite a spectacle in Falmouth. Credit: ITV West Country

On 31 December, the Kuzma Minin was deemed unseaworthy by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency and detained for having 13 problems including a broken compass, damaged lifeboats and expired safety equipment.

  • The full list of defects can be viewed here

On 3 January 2019, the Kuzma Minin was also arrested through the Admiralty Court due to debts owed by the ship owner elsewhere.

In a statement the Russian Embassy told ITV West Country:

For now, all of the 18 Russian crew members must remain on board the vessel.

Duncan Paul, the Deputy Harbourmaster at Falmouth told ITV News West Country: "I liaise with Port Health, the MCA, the Admiralty Marshal, the Russian Embassy and the owners to make sure the crew have proper amounts of food on board, fresh water, fuel… currently they’re in good stead.”

  • Watch "Bored on Board"

The Kuzma Minin and her crew may now remain in Falmouth for weeks or even months until repairs are made, debts are paid and a resolution is found.

The Kuzma Minin could remain in the sea off Falmouth for weeks to come. Credit: ITV West Country