On 4/17/1997 , the vessel VENUS (Official Number 5893) was involved in a grounding - under power (non-intentional) in PORT DE BECANCOUR, QUE.,.

The vessel, with 30 persons on board, experienced the incident while engaged in regular operations. Fortunately, the ship was able to continue its voyage. No injuries or fatalities were reported, and there was none pollution.

This incident was officially recorded by Transport Canada on 9/7/2000 9. Weather at the time was reported as overcast with winds from the SW at knots.

On 17 April 1997, the Liberian bulk carrier "VENUS" was proceeding up the St. Lawrence River on a voyage originating from Uquan Bay, China. Under the conduct of a pilot, the vessel commenced her approach to Bécancour Harbour, Quebec, assisted by two tugs.

While drifting laterally during the approach, the "VENUS" suddenly swung to port and grounded on a shoal at the downstream limit of the turning basin off the entrance to the harbour. The compartments were sounded and no leak was found. During the evening, the bulk carrier was refloated with the assistance of four tugs, but the vessel could not stem the current, and on 18 April 1997, she grounded again on the north shore of the river.

The Board determined that the "VENUS" grounded because an order to increase speed was not transmitted to the engine-room by the navigation personnel, and the pilot did not confirm that it was. The vessel's speed was insufficient to allow her to stem the current, and she was set toward the downstream limit of the turning basin, where she struck an obstruction. Following bottom contact, the vessel suddenly swung to port. The heavy spring current set the vessel toward the edge of the basin and the vessel grounded. The heavy concentration of shoals surveyed would seem to indicate that the obstruction was formed by silting.