The condition of a product tanker was being assessed on Wednesday after its hull was breached off the Azores.
Photos published by the port authority Portos dos Acores showed the 3,100-dwt Sao Jorge (built 2010) down by the stern.
The tanker grounded on Tuesday night near the islet of Praia, minutes after leaving the port of Praia da Graciosa.
Portuguese shipowner Transinsular said experts in naval engineering, together with divers, were “assessing the stability conditions”.
Portos dos Acores said a pilot was watching the departure but was not on board at the time of the grounding.
The pilot returned to the vessel after the incident.
Tugs helped with emergency manoeuvres to take the ship out of the current.
Extensive damage was reported to propellers and the hull, which caused water to flow in.
This ingress was contained by sealing the engine room.
The cargo of diesel and petrol was safe, the port authority said.
Transinsular said seven crew members were disembarked, while five stayed on board.
The company added that it was considering an alternative delivery method to ensure an uninterrupted fuel supply to the Atlantic islands.
The owner said it hoped the vessel could be towed away for repairs.
The tanker, which is insured by the West of England protection and indemnity club, has a clean port state control record.
