A Chinese freighter recently wrecked during Typhoon Kong-rey has become a photo opportunity for tourists visiting the Yehliu area of Taiwan.
The Chinese freighter Yu Zhou Qi Hang (鈺洲啟航) ran aground on the reefs of Yehliu on Tuesday last week. Taiwan's Coast Guard Administration (CGA) rescued all 17 crew members after the captain abandoned the vessel, which had lost its ability to navigate due to heavy loading and rough seas.
The ship, half sunk and off-kilter from the weight of its crane cargo, has become a spectacle for tourists visiting the area normally famous for its unique coastline and eroded rock formations.
Many people can be seen interacting with the freighter in different poses for photos. One student says the sight of a wrecked ship is rare and a unique experience. Another tourist adds that they came specifically to see the incident and they are glad they were able to catch a glimpse before the government removes the mess.
The view of the sunken freighter, deformed in its impact with Yehliu’s reef, and some of the fallen crane structures can be seen from a higher observation deck. Many people are expressing concern over the environmental impact of such a shipwreck.
Transportation Ministry Northern Port Management Director He Wen-zhi (何文智) assures the public that even though the operation originally scheduled to remove the remaining oil from the freighter’s fuel tanks is still standing by for more stable ocean conditions, the integrity of the ship is stable and there will be no leakage problem.
Those interested in a snapshot should hurry to Yehliu now, as the area will likely be returned to ship-shape as soon as weather permits.