Ship detained at Duluth port more than a month finally leaves

The Cornelia leaves Duluth
The oceangoing ship Cornelia left the Duluth harbor Friday morning, Dec. 18, 2015. The ship had been anchored outside Duluth for more than a month while the U.S. Justice Department investigated alleged environmental violations.
Dan Kraker | MPR News

Updated: 10:50 a.m. | Posted: 7:58 a.m.

After more than a month stuck in the Duluth harbor, it was bon voyage for an oceangoing cargo ship at about 9 a.m. Friday morning.

The Cornelia had been anchored outside Duluth while the U.S. Justice Department investigated alleged environmental violations. The Coast Guard reached an agreement with the ship's German operator to allow it to leave while the investigation continues.

The Cornelia is bound for Tunisia with a load of wheat. It faced a tight deadline to leave Duluth to make it through the St. Lawrence Seaway before it closes on Dec. 30.

Create a More Connected Minnesota

MPR News is your trusted resource for the news you need. With your support, MPR News brings accessible, courageous journalism and authentic conversation to everyone - free of paywalls and barriers. Your gift makes a difference.