I have been following the progress of the tug Amber II which it is towing Wightlink's new ferry Victoria of Wight to Portsmouth.
Earlier this afternoon, just SE of Sicily I noticed that it had deviated from its west heading almost north. It has continued on that heading (approx 340) since then.
I am wondering the reason. Have they encountered some refugees and taking them to safety perhaps?
See this link to Marine Traffic (select Past Track).
I don't think it was too windy. Sure, the flag was billowing well, but the hovercraft are still running. I snapped a few photos as well, though much like yours. Once the weather clears a bit, she should be fairly clear on the Gosport ferry terminal camera.
It was the wind I was thinking of, she has a lot of top hamper, and shallow draught, and the harbour mouth can act like a funnel. Especially from the SE, which fortunately wasn't the wind direction at the time. She did stand off for an half an hour or so before she committed to the move. I wouldn't have liked to have seen her do a Vanguard (Jester)
Victoria of Wight seems now to be in regular passenger service, following naming ceremony in Fishbourne on Thursday.
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