Dynacom VLCC Acheloos Reportedly Struck in Strait of Hormuz as Kavomaleas Continues to Burn

A second Dynacom-managed tanker, the VLCC Acheloos, was reportedly struck in the Strait of Hormuz at approximately the same time as the product tanker Kavomaleas on Monday July 20, according to maritime security company Marisks.

The Kavomaleas was struck twice near Kumzar, Oman, sustaining an engine room fire that could not be controlled with the vessel's fixed firefighting system. The crew abandoned ship and were rescued by a tugboat. As of Monday evening, Kavomaleas continued to burn and remained adrift in the strait. UKMTO has warned vessels to transit the area with caution. No environmental impact has been detected.

NASA FIRMS infrared data showed two heat signatures in the Strait of Hormuz on Monday - one consistent with the reported position of Kavomaleas, and a second to the north near the centre of the strait, potentially consistent with the reported Acheloos strike location.

Both vessels are owned by Dynacom. The extent of damage to Acheloos and the status of its crew have not been confirmed at time of publication.

Investigation is ongoing. UKMTO is coordinating with regional authorities.