Work has officially begun to dismantle the grounded container ship MSC Baltic III along the coast of Newfoundland, Canada, more than a year after the vessel ran aground following a power failure during severe winter weather. The operation is being overseen by the Canadian Coast Guard, with salvage contractor Resolve Marine leading the wreck removal project.

According to authorities, favorable weather conditions have recently allowed crews to increase access to the vessel and start the deconstruction phase. A barge has been positioned alongside the wreck to support the removal of materials, while construction of access roads and a switchback route to the shoreline is ongoing to facilitate the transport of equipment and recovered materials.

The removal project is expected to be a lengthy and complex process that could take a year or longer to complete. Plans call for separating the vessel into sections, with the forward part of the ship to be pulled ashore for dismantling. Materials recovered from the wreck will be transported away for recycling and disposal.

Prior cleanup efforts focused on removing potential environmental hazards from the vessel. Authorities reported that most of the ship’s cargo containers, including those carrying dangerous goods, were removed during earlier operations. Approximately 1,700 metric tons of fuel were also extracted from the vessel to reduce pollution risks.

The Canadian Coast Guard stated that the wreck remains stable despite significant structural damage caused by months of exposure to harsh weather and ice conditions. Monitoring of the site continues, including shoreline inspections, drone surveys, and onboard assessments to ensure environmental protection throughout the removal process.

MSC Baltic III ran aground near Cedar Cove, Newfoundland, in February 2025 after losing power during a winter storm. All crew members were safely rescued, and under Canadian regulations, the vessel’s owner and insurers remain responsible for the costs associated with the wreck removal and environmental cleanup.