The Dutch cargo vessel Thamesborg has remained aground atop a shoal in Canada’s Northwest Passage for a month, with salvage operations intensifying as winter approaches. The arrival of the Finnish-built icebreaker Botnica, after a three-week journey from Europe, provides critical towing power and flexibility as sea ice begins to form in the region. Multiple vessels, including the tug Beverly M I and cargo ships Silver Copenhagen and Nunalik, have assisted in transferring the Thamesborg’s cargo of carbon blocks to facilitate refloating efforts. With sea ice building in nearby straits, Wagenborg aims to refloat and tow the vessel within the week, weather permitting, as options for safe passage narrow. The incident highlights the risks and logistical challenges of Arctic shipping as the Northwest Passage’s seasonal closure looms.