1.
SV. The Dutch Cruiser "DE"LEVEN PROVINCIEN" aground.


2.
LV. Ditto.


3.
SV.PAN Alongside of the cruiser.


4.
LV. Tug alongside cruiser.


5.
SV.PAN From deck of cruiser, PAN down to Tug.


6.
SV. Ammunition is unloaded into Tug as a precautionary measure.


7.
LV. Showing cruiser aground in Jetty.


8.
Rear V. From someone seated on shore to cruiser.


9.
SV. Tugs attempting to pull cruiser off Jetty.


10.
SV. Crowds on shore watching.


11.
LV. Tugs attempting release cruiser.


12.
SV. Ditto.


13.
LV. Crowds of spectators.


14.
SV. Tugs and cruiser.


15.
GV. Spectators and cruiser.




Initials D.C. WWS/VCW



Script is copyright Reuters Limited. All rights reserved

Background: The Dutch cruiser De Zeven Provincien, the Dutch Navy's 11,926-ton flag ship and its second largest ship, went aground at the Den Helder naval base on August 26.

The previous day the cruiser developed engine trouble and spent the night anchored off the base. During the early hours of the 26th the vessel tried to enter the base on one engine.

A receding tide added to her difficulties and the cruiser went onto a sandbank at the entrance to the base.

First attempts by tugs to float the ship failed. Safety precautions included unloading all the ammunition on board. If further attempts fail part of a jetty next to the ship may have to be partly demolished.

Launched in 1950, costing GBP8,800,000 De Zeven Provincien has a crew of 960.