Maersk has confirmed that the Maersk Sana remains adrift, with a tugboat from Europe expected to arrive “in the coming days.”

On April 28, the 8,450 TEU vessel suffered an engine room explosion that injured three crew members—one seriously. The ship has since been drifting with only auxiliary power for 15 days. A tugboat is now en route and will connect to the vessel upon arrival to tow it to a safe harbor in the Bahamas, where it is expected to arrive in the final week of May.

Industry observers initially questioned Maersk's strategy of hiring a tug from Europe to cross the Atlantic. At the time, Maersk explained, “We aim to get it right the first time. We need the right tug for the job, not necessarily the closest one.” The company has not disclosed further details of the tugboat hired.

So far, weather conditions have remained relatively favorable. In its latest statement, Maersk said, “Our monitoring team continues to track weather developments and the operation’s progress to ensure a safe and efficient process.” The company also reported that the injured crew members are in stable condition and receiving the best care at a hospital in the U.S.

Just prior to the incident, on April 16, the Maersk Sana underwent a Port State Control inspection by the U.S. Coast Guard in Charleston and passed without any deficiencies. The vessel is covered by protection and indemnity insurance from Oslo-based Skuld.