The Liberian-flagged bulk carrier Cape Falcon has remained aground off Gladstone, Queensland, Australia, for five days after two attempts to refloat the vessel failed.

The 292-meter bulk carrier grounded on September 18 while attempting to anchor approximately six nautical miles east of the Port of Gladstone.

According to Queensland’s Department of Transport and Main Roads, Maritime Safety Queensland continues to coordinate the response and recovery operation. Tugboats have already assisted with two unsuccessful refloating attempts.

No Injuries or Pollution Reported

All crew members aboard the Cape Falcon are reported to be safe, and there have been no reports of injuries.

Authorities have also reported no pollution or hull breach following the grounding.

The vessel is not blocking the main shipping channel, meaning other vessels can continue to use the channel. However, port operations in the area remain affected while authorities and salvage teams work on the recovery operation.

Recovery Efforts Continue

The unsuccessful refloating attempts mean further work is required before the bulk carrier can be moved from the grounding location.

Maritime Safety Queensland is continuing to monitor the situation, while the authorities assess the safest way to refloat the vessel.

The grounding occurred while the vessel was attempting to anchor, and investigators are now working to establish exactly what happened during the operation.

ATSB Investigates Cape Falcon Grounding

The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) has launched an investigation into the incident.

Investigators are expected to interview crew members and collect evidence to determine the circumstances surrounding the grounding.

The vessel will also be detained after it is refloated. Before the Cape Falcon is allowed to resume its voyage, authorities will conduct a seaworthiness inspection to check whether the vessel and its systems are safe for further operation.

At this stage, there are no reports of injuries, pollution, or a breach of the vessel’s hull.

The focus remains on safely refloating the bulk carrier and completing the investigation into the incident.

• Vessel: Cape Falcon
• Type: Bulk carrier
• Flag: Liberia
• Length: 292 meters
• Location: Approximately 6 nautical miles east of Gladstone, Queensland
• Incident date: September 18, 2026
• Crew: Safe, with no injuries reported
• Pollution: None reported
• Refloating attempts: Two unsuccessful attempts
• Investigation: Australian Transport Safety Bureau
• Current status: Remains aground while recovery efforts continue