The Antarctic rescue

Chinese ship now caught in ice

A Chinese ship that went to the aid of a Russian vessel stuck in ice in Antarctica is still struggling to get out of the ice itself.

Radio NZ,

4 January, 2014

The Xue Long (Snow Dragon) sent a helicopter to rescue 52 passengers aboard the Akademik Shokalskiy on Thursday.

It too became stuck in the ice on Friday.

The Australian Maritime Safety Authority said the Xue Long has confirmed that it is stuck, but not in any danger.

AAP reports the Aurora Australis, which is carrying the rescued passengers, was on standby to help the Xue Long.

However, the Australian icebreaker has now been told it can leave the area and is making its way to the Australian Antarctic base before delivering the passengers to Hobart in about two weeks.

AMSA said the Akademik Shokalskiy and Xue Long are able to assist each other if necessary.

AAP reports the Akademik Shokalskiy became stuck on Christmas Eve, after a blizzard froze sea ice around the ship.