Iranian authorities successfully rescued 21 seafarers from a capsized tanker in the Middle East Gulf. The crew members, believed to be Sri Lankan, were picked up by Iranian vessels near Bandar-e-Jask. The tanker was carrying oil at the time of the incident, but its size remains unknown. Storms in the region have caused disruptions in key energy transport corridors.
Bernhard Schulte Shipmanagement (BSM) has launched the BSM Smart Academy to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and practical training for future seafarers. Partnering with maritime universities, the program aims to address the shortage of skilled labor in the maritime sector by providing comprehensive training and preparing cadets for leadership roles.
The UK MAIB reports on a bulk carrier’s collision with fishing vessels due to distraction and lack of experience. Lessons learned include the importance of a well-balanced plan, constant monitoring, providing guidance to new crew members, and managing risks effectively to prevent accidents at sea. Vigilance and experience are key in ensuring maritime safety.
The 25 crew members of the MSC Aries, seized by Iran, are safe according to MSC. Discussions with Iranian authorities are ongoing for their early release and cargo discharge. The ITF prioritizes crew welfare and safety, urging Iran for immediate release. Recent attacks in the region have impacted global maritime transport. Join the gCaptain Club for exclusive insights.
For over two weeks, the crew of the Dali ship, which collided with Baltimore’s Key Bridge, has remained on board. The Seafarers’ Center and response team explain that the crew is working to support recovery efforts. Despite access to resources, the crew faces uncertainty about when they can return home.
Fresh water scarcity is a growing issue affecting billions worldwide. A team at Maersk, former seafarers, developed a project to deliver excess fresh water from cargo ships to ports. The pilot runs at Port of Colombo and Port of Salalah were successful, showcasing a sustainable solution to the global water crisis.
The maritime industry faces a growing challenge of drug smuggling, with a 23% increase in global drug activity from 2011 to 2021. Traffickers are using innovative tactics, including hacking customs systems. Collaborative efforts like Operation TIN CAN and INTERPOL’s I-RAID aim to combat trafficking effectively, while the Port Security Project strengthens port security frameworks.
The charity Stella Maris highlights the growing loneliness and depression among Ukrainian sailors due to the ongoing war in Ukraine. Port chaplains report distress among seafarers, especially regarding the fear of forced conscription upon returning home. Access to news online exacerbates anxiety, while long periods at sea impact sailors’ well-being.
Rizvanolli and her team study life at sea to create effective work schedules for seafarers. Factors like qualifications and voyage type are considered for companies like Carnival Cruise Line and Columbia Shipmanagement. Safety and employee satisfaction are prioritized, with a 24/7 plan and ongoing updates during voyages. Personnel Planning 2.0 ensures efficiency.
Video and pictures of a container ship flattening the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore quickly made headlines. The 9,962-teu Dali, involved in the tragic accident, and the wreckage of the bridge have become a common sight. Yet, the crew members on board the ship have remained largely silent since the incident.
Indian Maritime University is conducting the IMU-CET entrance exam for various courses in different campuses. Applicants must meet eligibility criteria before registering online. Exam centers are located in different districts of Kerala. Courses include Marine Engineering, Naval Architecture, Logistics, and more. Register online on the official website.
The Maritime and Coastguard Agency has revamped the survey for seafarers to provide feedback on their training experience. This initiative aims to enhance strengths, identify weaknesses, and ensure relevant skills for the future. Chief Examiner Ajit Jacob emphasizes the importance of hearing from cadets to maintain the UK’s reputation for producing skilled seafarers.
Seafarers are seeking certification in Ghana due to limitations imposed by NIMASA in Nigeria. The Co-founder of MOFN, Emmanuel Jeremiah, urges the agency to remove restrictions on OOW licenses. Nigerian seafarers face challenges securing foreign employment opportunities due to the lack of MoUs with top shipping nations. Ghana offers more advantageous training and employment conditions.
Learn how the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) is addressing the unjust treatment of seafarers in response to maritime incidents and suspected crimes. Criminalization is a major issue affecting seafarers, with many being detained without fair treatment. The ITF has released a guide to educate and support seafarers facing legal challenges. Contact Nautilus for assistance during investigations.
Most marine casualties are caused by human error, as shown by insurers’ data. The allision of the towboat Susan K with the Natchez-Vidalia Bridge was a clear example of this. The captain admitted to becoming complacent after 200 trips on the same route, leading to the unfortunate accident.
