Following careful consideration, the Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure & Water Management has designated Eemshaven as the Port of Refuge for the troubled freighter, Fremantle Highway. The decision was made based on the port's proximity to the temporary anchorage, existing infrastructure, and facilities conducive to the salvage process. By minimizing the towage journey, potential risks associated with adverse weather conditions can be mitigated.

The towing of the Fremantle Highway to Eemshaven commenced in the early hours of the morning. The vessel caught fire on July 25, about 27 kilometers north of Ameland, resulting in the evacuation of its 23 crew members. Unfortunately, one crew member lost their life, and several others were hospitalized. The ship, a car carrier carrying nearly 3,000 vehicles, was then towed to a temporary anchorage above Schiermonnikoog and Ameland to assess the situation on board and prevent disruptions to other maritime traffic.

Salvage operations are being carried out by local companies, Multraship and Smit Salvage, while regular inspections have shown no indication of ongoing fires aboard the Fremantle Highway. The towing journey is being closely monitored by experts, the Guardian of the Coast Guard, and the oil response vessel Arca of Rijkswaterstaat.

Once in Eemshaven, the vessel will be able to unload its cargo. Groningen Seaports, as the manager of Eemshaven, is taking proactive measures to minimize disruptions to port activities and support the distressed vessel. The cooperation of local companies in Eemshaven is crucial in ensuring a smooth and efficient response.

Collaboration between various entities, including Rijkswaterstaat, Groningen Security Region, and the Municipality of Het Hogeland, is underway to mitigate potential damages to people and the environment. Safety protocols are being strictly followed to allow the freighter to enter the port without further risk.

The ship's owner is responsible for handling the cargo and related matters, while Rijkswaterstaat will continue to monitor water quality. As an extra precaution, an oil-conductive screen has been placed around the ship to limit contamination.

Overall, efforts are being made to safeguard the environment and ensure a secure resolution to the incident involving the Fremantle Highway.