#AbukLion - Following the dramatic rescue of the stricken bulk carrier Abuk Lion, the Port of Cork took over the final leg of the rescue at port limits this morning, bringing the vessel inside the harbour today 31 December at 12.30pm.

Three attempts were made to attach a towline to the vessel outside the harbour in very dangerous sea conditions. However, the rescue attempt was forced to abort when the Port Authority deemed the operation too dangerous last night in gale force winds.

On the final attempt this morning, a Cork pilot boarded the vessel and co- ordinated the final towage operation with two tugs, Celtic Isle and Alex.

According to the Port of Cork, had this final attempt not been successful the vessel would have had to remain outside port limits for another two or three days, weather depending.

The tow operation was made more difficult when the Celtic Isle, skippered by Pat Stoat, was forced to tow the vessel astern due to the broken tow rope sustained in the earlier part of the rescue.

Port of Cork harbour master Capt Paul O’Regan, who coordinated the rescue from port operations, praised the skill and expertise of the Cork pilots, tug masters, boat crews and port operations who persevered with the operation in very dangerous sea conditions.

MV Abuk Lion will remain at Ringaskiddy Deepwater Berth in Cork Harbour, and the Port of Cork will ensure a berth is available until the necessary engine repairs are carried out.