The container vessel MSC Napoli was beached off Beer Head on the East Devon coast after it ran into difficulties on Saturday 20 January 2007.
The vessel was in danger of breaking up while under tow to Portland for repairs.
The decision to beach and ballast it about 1 mile east of Sidmouth was taken by the Secretary of State's Representative to minimise the impact of any oil spillage.
For a short summary of the incident, including explanations to decisions taken and information about the oil recovery operations, please visit the East Devon District Council website.
Any sighting of oil should be reported via telephone to East Devon District Council on 01395 571700.
Napoli de-brief report
A multi-agency de-brief has taken place covering the emergency response and recovery issues, from the beaching of the vessel in January to the lifting of the last container in May. View the report 
(660KB - pdf help)
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Information for Visitors
Steep wooded valleys, rugged cliffs and secluded coves give East Devon its unique appeal and its wealth of accommodation in the area's peaceful towns and villages make it an ideal base for exploring the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site.
The beaching of the MSC Napoli has only affected a very isolated area of the coastline. Information signs have been posted on beaches where there are small amounts of pollutant but otherwise villages, towns and coastpaths are all open and businesses are still welcoming visitors.
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