Tanker Collision Off Florya, Turkey
On December 30, the 141-meter tanker Kalbajar (IMO: 9821471) collided with Alatepe (IMO: 9104873) at Kucukcekmece anchorage near Florya in the Sea of Marmara due to strong winds causing its anchor to drag, forcing the Kalbajar towards Alatepe and leading to their collision. Both vessels had been close to shore when this happened.
The incident caused no damage or pollution; however, Kalbajar's anchor chain became entangled with Alatepe's propeller, prompting authorities to dispatch tugboats and response teams. Both ships were in ballast condition while Alatepe carried approximately 2,500 tons of chemicals - however none of their crew were injured during either collision.
Nile River Cruise Ship Collisions at Esna Lock
On December 21, two Nile River cruise ships collided near Esna Lock approximately 1.2 miles south of Aswan in Egypt, leading to one passenger death while all others were safely evacuated from both vessels. This accident demonstrated navigational risks inherent to crowded waterways as well as the importance of stringent safety and traffic management protocols on inland passenger vessels.
Swedish Waters Collision off Onsala
On December 10, a maritime collision took place near Onsala in Kungsbacka involving two ships: one fishing vessel and one merchant vessel. No injuries were reported as a result.
Dec Maritime Incidents in Detail
December 2025 saw additional maritime casualties beyond collisions. On December 20, the bulk carrier Alphaelia ran aground at an anchorage copy near Istanbul in the Sea of Marmara near Istanbul without injuries or pollution taking place; after being refloated with tug assistance. This incident highlighted navigation difficulties and congested anchorage zones along a key maritime route between Black Sea and Mediterranean Seas.
An oil/chemical tanker named Xang FA experienced loss of control while transiting Taiwan Strait on December 21, signalling navigational failure in one of Asia's busiest shipping lanes. On the same day, cargo vessel Anif experienced engine failure while transiting Turkey's Kakilel Strait on December 24, necessitating tugboat deployment as she moved through.