The Maltese registered coaster Kodima, abandoned by 16 Russia crew after her captain was swept to his death, is now aground in Whitsand Bay, Cornwall. The ship’s general cargo poses no immediate threat but her bunkers contain 600 tonnes of fuel and oil. Salvage attempts have been suspended due to the weather but the vessel is currently standing up to her pounding in the surf and there are no signs of any oil leakage.

Anyone who has plans to try and build a boat from the quantity of timber cargo lost from the Kodima needs to think again according to the Coastguard…not only are they urging people to keep away from the area but any recovered cargo has to be reported to the Receiver of Wreck.

At the other end of the British Isles, the Norwegian fishing boat Viknafisk suffered engine failure early this morning 30 miles west of Shetland. A sister ship, and the Aith lifeboat, have been involved in towing the casualty in heavy seas towards a sheltered bay at West Burra Firth. The tow has parted twice during the day but the wind is now abating and it is hoped to complete the exercise by later tonight.

So far this weekend there are no reports of any incidents involving leisure boats at sea, one glance at the synoptic presumably being enough to dissuade skippers of the notion of setting out.

For updates on the weather, click here