Crews Make Steady Progress Dismantling MSC Baltic III in Cedar Cove, Newfoundland and Labrador

Since the MSC Baltic III ran aground in February 2025, it has remained stranded on the ocean floor in Cedar Cove, near Lark Harbour. Because severe structural damage prevents it from being towed, salvage crews must now dismantle the 207-meter vessel on-site and truck it out piece by piece.

Ever since the MSC Baltic III lost power and ran aground during a brutal storm in February 2025, it has been a tense waiting game against the elements in Cedar Cove. After enduring a harsh winter of heavy ice, pounding waves, and severe winds, the 207-meter hull has suffered catastrophic cracking and buckling, leaving the stern firmly resting on the ocean floor.

Because the vessel is far too structurally compromised to ever be safely towed, the salvage plan has shifted into an intense, on-site deconstruction phase. Florida-based Resolve Marine has been brought in to lead this massive and complex operation, which has completely transformed the local landscape.

The Dismantling Strategy

The ongoing salvage work has generated contrasting views among residents in the neighboring communities of Lark Harbour and York Harbour:

• Roadway Wear and Tear: Town leaders and residents are deeply worried about the integrity of Route 450. They fear the local highway cannot handle the constant traffic and immense weight of the flatbeds transporting tons of salvaged steel.
• Altered Surroundings: Known for its scenic hiking and shoreline, Cedar Cove is a beloved recreational spot. However, creating a steep, heavy-duty switchback road to access the shore has temporarily converted this pristine natural area into a noisy industrial site.
• An Unexpected Economic Boost: More positively, the stranded vessel has drawn thousands of curious onlookers over the past several months. This surge in tourism has provided a welcome financial lift to local businesses, including nearby restaurants, cafes, and rentals like the Lark Harbour Tilt.

Because environmental protection and crew safety are the top priorities over a fast finish, officials anticipate that the entire project—including removing the temporary access road and fully restoring the beach—will take until 2027 to complete.