Two maritime companies, Avin International and Kriti Ruby Special Maritime Enterprises, have been fined $3.375 million and ordered to make a charitable donation of $1.125 million for environmental violations. The companies admitted to pollution breaches during port calls in Florida and New Jersey, leading to a reminder of the importance of environmental compliance.
U.S. Coast Guard Station Mayport swiftly responded to a dredge fire on the Stuyvesant near the St. John’s River. Multiple agencies collaborated to manage the emergency, with a crew member sustaining injuries. The vessel is now under investigation, raising questions about safety measures. Prompt response and coordination were crucial in the operation.
A barge broke free on the Tennessee River due to Hurricane Helene, prompting a warning from the U.S. Coast Guard. After successful recovery, mariners are advised to be cautious due to high water levels. The impact of the hurricane led to the barge becoming unmoored, emphasizing the need for vigilance while navigating the river.
The U.S. Coast Guard executed a daring rescue off the coast of Florida during Hurricane Helene, saving a man and his dog from a disabled sailboat. Despite strong winds and choppy seas, the team airlifted the pair to safety. This mission highlights the dangers of hurricanes and the Coast Guard’s commitment to saving lives.[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0psbwUVusyc[/embed]
A mariner in need of medical assistance was rescued by the U.S. Coast Guard from an oil tanker off Freeport, Texas. The 21-year-old male was hoisted by a helicopter crew and taken to a hospital in Galveston. The swift response of the Coast Guard ensured the mariner received prompt medical attention and was reported to be in stable condition.[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NRS0WTGPzDs[/embed]
The Safer Seas Digest 2023 is accessible online, along with past editions, via the NTSB website. The annual publication, issued by the NTSB’s Office of Marine Safety since 2014, shares safety issues, recommendations, and lessons learned from marine surveys conducted in the previous year to enhance maritime safety.
Charleston pilot Christopher Thornton received the Meritorious Public Service Award from the U.S. Coast Guard for his heroic actions in handling the runaway vessel, MSC Michigan VII. Rear Admiral Douglas Schofield commended Thornton’s skill in guiding the ship safely, preventing a potential disaster. The Coast Guard and local authorities were also praised for their swift response.
The US Coast Guard’s investigation into the tragic sinking of the Titanium submersible is extended beyond the original schedule, nearing the one-year anniversary of the incident. The need for recovery missions and forensic investigations has led to delays. The MBI aims to hold a public hearing by the end of the year.
The Canadian-flagged M/V Michipicoten, a bulk carrier carrying taconite, was safely escorted to Thunder Bay, Ontario after significant flooding in Lake Superior. The US Coast Guard responded to a distress call, successfully reducing the ship’s list from 15 to 5 degrees. All crew members were safely evacuated, with no reported injuries.
SWITCH Maritime’s hydrogen-powered ferry, The Tidal Change, received a certificate of inspection from the US Coast Guard, marking a milestone in hydrogen fuel cells in the maritime industry. The vessel will begin commercial operations in San Francisco as the first hydrogen-powered ship in the US, with support from various sponsors.
A 91 foot crab fishing vessel named North American sank off a Seattle pier, triggering a swift response from the U.S. Coast Guard and local agencies. The incident occurred near Ballard Bridge on Lake Washington Ship Canal. Emergency procedures were put in place to contain the diesel spill and prevent environmental damage.
A six-day inferno engulfed the Kodiak Enterprise due to inadequate fire reporting, resulting in a $56.6 million total loss. Crew members escaped unharmed after a nearby deckhand spotted the fire and alerted them. The NTSB highlighted the ship’s faulty notification system and stressed the importance of regular testing for wireless monitoring systems.
Maritime Partners has received a Design Basis Agreement from the US Coast Guard for the revolutionary MS Hydrogen One Tug boat. The vessel will utilize e1 marine hydrogen generator technology, converting stored methanol into hydrogen for electricity generation, reducing emissions and increasing efficiency. This innovative project signifies a shift towards cleaner energy use in the maritime industry.
A US-flagged cargo ship, American Mariner, collided with the Mud Lake Junction Light in Munuscong Lake, Michigan. The U.S. Coast Guard reported the 714-foot-long vessel suffered a “marine casualty” with no injuries or pollution. Response teams are on-site, and the St. Marys River is temporarily closed for safety measures.
Richard Cruz and Jaime Pinilla Gomez were arrested after a fatal capsizing accident on the Hudson River in July 2022. The Coast Guard suspects illegal passenger operations and lack of necessary certifications. Capt. Zeita Merchant expressed condolences and urged vigilance against illegal charters to avoid penalties and ensure safety at sea.
