The Forward Seamen’s Union of India (FSUI) condemned the handling of Tamil Nadu seafarer Nishanth Uirthanathan’s death aboard the MT Celestial. They criticized the ship management for failing to provide timely medical support, leaving his body to decompose. FSUI demands accountability and respect for seafarers, urging a thorough investigation.
The Sailors’ Society has launched an emergency appeal for seafarers impacted by the conflict in the Strait of Hormuz. CEO Sara Baade highlighted the plight of innocent crew members, like 25-year-old Dalip, who lost his life in a missile strike. The charity urgently seeks donations to support affected families.
A ship transporting Russian fuels is headed to Cuba, complicating US sanctions as the island faces a critical energy crisis. The Sea Horse, arriving in March, carries vital supplies amid severe shortages affecting daily life. Cuba’s electricity usage has plummeted, indicating a dire situation for the nation struggling with fuel imports.
On February 13-14, 2026, the TUI Cruises vessel Mein Schiff Relax departed Santa Cruz de Tenerife when the medical team identified a crew member in urgent need of care. The Spanish maritime rescue service dispatched Salvamar Tenerife to facilitate a safe transfer, ensuring timely medical attention at a local hospital.
The New Mangaluru Port Authority (NMPA) successfully executed a mid-sea emergency medical evacuation after a crew member on the merchant vessel M.V. AMNS STALLION suffered a stroke. Responding swiftly, NMPA deployed tugboat Ocean Harmony, ensuring the crew member received immediate medical attention upon arrival at the port, saving his life.
On October 26, 2025, crew members aboard the MSC Splendida displayed remarkable bravery, rescuing 19 migrants from drowning off Mallorca’s coast. Under challenging conditions, they swiftly deployed life-saving equipment, saving 16 men, one woman, and two young children. Their professionalism earned accolades from Samoa Shipping Services and a private dinner from Captain Maresca.
On October 17, NYK and NYK Ship Management Pte. Ltd. conducted a maritime accident drill off Okinawa Island. Simulating a fire in a car carrier’s cargo hold, the exercise also involved a collision with a small craft. This initiative, part of the “Remember Naka-no-Se” campaign, emphasized emergency response and coordination.
A gas leak on a barge in the Houston Ship Channel prompted community alerts, but officials have confirmed no air quality threats. The leak involved butadiene, a common industrial gas, but was quickly contained. The situation was caused by a broken valve and the barge has been moved for assessment. The area is now safe.
DNV has issued guidance on emergency escape trunks from machinery spaces on ships to avoid detention during Port State Control inspections for non-compliance with SOLAS regulations. Focus is on vessels built after February 1, 2016, ensuring compliance with IACS UI SC 276/277. Crews are urged to conduct evacuation drills to demonstrate proficiency in evacuating injured persons.
