The collision between the Algerian-flag bulker SERSOU and the Canadian-flag laker SILVER ISLE occured off Varennes, Québec, on April 12, 1991 at the end of a clear sunlit afternoon. SERSOU was downbound from Montréal fully loaded with a cargo of grain and SILVER ISLE was upbound for the Seaway in ballast. The pilots of both vessels had agreed to a starboard to starboard meeting off Ste.Thérèse Island to negociate a curve on the river. SERSOU was not able to complete her positioning in time because of her heavy draught and the Algerian's port bow scrapped the port side of SILVER ISLE along her entire lenght opening her hull like a sardine can.
SILVER ISLE's pilot fearing below the waterline damage to his ship beached her near the shore of the island while SERSOU continued downbound at a very reduced speed towards the Lanoraie anchorage off Sorel-Tracy where she anchored for inspection.
I heard it all happen over the VHF radio and took photos of both ships in the minutes following the accident. The photos published here by eastsailor describe very well the damage sustained by both vessels which were later repaired and put back in service. SILVER ISLE still sails today as Algoma's ALGOISLE.

Marc