The damaged bulk carrier Ale remains at Pier 9B as per previous posts, including yesterday's. That post reported the departure of the tug Kamarina without the ship in tow. I noted that the tug had come alongside the ship February 14-15, but did not notice that the tug retrieved its emergency towing line which had been rigged along the port rail of the ship. That line presumably belonged to the towing company, and with the tow cancelled then the line would not be remaining with the ship.
As mentioned the ship is without rudder and perhaps prop. They may have been lost or removed and stowed on the ship while at the Verreault shipyard. As of today some light steel framing is still visible at the stern - purpose unknown. It hardly looks sufficient to brace a prop in ocean conditions.
However rumours are now flying that the ship has been acquired by Canadian owners (which I will not name) and will be refitted for service. There will be a big repair bill for the hull damage and possible shaft realignment, but perhaps the price was right. If the rumours are true, repairs will likely take place at one of the three Canadian shipyards capable of handling a ship of this size. The Heddle Marine shipyard (former Port Weller Dry Dock) in St.Catharines, ON is one, but it will not be accessible until the Seaway opens March 22, and wintering ships depart. Davie in Lévis and Verreault have large enough drydocks also and are possibilities if they are not booked for other work.
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