The Nena J — a Greek-owned bulk carrier transporting steel pipes from India to Chile — was towed to Cape Town at 5pm on Monday after developing engine trouble, Maritime Rescue said.

Spokeswoman Sarene Kloren said the ship's 16-man crew had been attempting to repair the ship's engines earlier

"They haven't been able to repair the engines and it will have to be towed... All crew are still on board," she said.

The bulk carrier developed engine trouble near Gans Baai, on the Cape coast, on Sunday and was in danger of running aground.

Kloren said the tug "Smit Amandla" attempted to connect a towline to the carrier on Sunday, but due to the extremely rough seas the line snagged and broke.

Sapa