Crew Reviews, Ratings & Info for Bbg-Kindness

The recent sinking of the Panama-flagged bulk carrier 'Ocean Winner' in the Bay of Bengal has raised significant safety concerns among maritime operators regarding the loading of iron ore, especially during the challenging monsoon season. Following this incident, the Paradip Port Authority (PPA) issued a directive to the bulk carrier 'Othrys' to commence loading its allocated iron ore shipment. However, the vessel's master opted to limit the loading of moisture-heavy iron ore from the designated area, prioritizing safety amidst the weather conditions. Since August 21, 2026, the 'Othrys' has been stationed at the South Quay berth, preparing to export a total of 62,000 tonnes of iron ore to China. To date, only 26,873 tonnes have been loaded, leaving 35,127 tonnes still awaiting shipment. The prolonged stay, now extending to approximately 20 days, has raised alarms about efficiency at the port. Similarly, the bulk carrier 'BBG Kindness' arrived at the New Iron berth on August 9, tasked with loading 61,140 tonnes of iron ore intended for China. However, its master also expressed concerns regarding the safety of carrying potentially excess cargo during the rainy period and ultimately set sail after loading merely 37,396 tonnes. Indian maritime regulations enforce stringent protocols surrounding the loading and transport of solid bulk cargoes, particularly those vulnerable to liquefaction. The Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) adheres to the International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes (IMSBC) Code, which mandates comprehensive safety measures for potentially liquefiable cargoes. Risk assessments, moisture testing, and adherence to safety requirements are essential under these guidelines. Special attention is required for iron ore fines, particularly concerning their moisture content and the Transportable Moisture Limit (TML). The PPA formally addressed the owners and captain of the 'Othrys' regarding the limitations on its loading procedures. In response to the urgent circumstances, DGS surveyors collected samples of the existing iron ore cargo for detailed analysis while also increasing scrutiny over moisture levels, TML certification, loading conditions, and weather predictions. Loading operations were temporarily suspended pending the completion of a thorough safety report. As vessel masters continue to exercise caution, the repercussions could ripple throughout Paradip Port, potentially hampering cargo throughput and iron ore exports. This reluctance could also lead to financial losses among exporters, miners, transport operators, stevedoring agencies, and other associated stakeholders, ultimately impacting the state's economic activities and revenue streams.

In a concerning security incident, the bulk carrier SBI Athena (IMO: 9787712, 36,336 GT, built in 2015) was the target of thieves on June 30, 2023. The vessel was docked at berth No. 115 at the Tanjung Priok port in Jakarta, Indonesia, when the robbery occurred around 0930 hrs during ongoing cargo operations. The alert Bosun, performing standard checks, discovered that the padlock to the store had been tampered with and immediately notified the duty officer. An alarm was swiftly raised, prompting the crew to assemble for a thorough search of the ship. Unfortunately, it was confirmed that several items belonging to the vessel's crew had been stolen. The incident has been officially reported to port authorities, leading to an investigation by both the Port Security Police and the Coast Guard, who boarded the SBI Athena to assess the situation and gather evidence.

The vessel Marmara has successfully secured a new charter deal set to last between seven and nine months. Under this arrangement, the ship will operate in exchange for daily earnings of $11,500. The redelivery of the vessel is scheduled to take place in the Atlantic region. This charter agreement has been facilitated by Ellery Shiptrade, marking another milestone in maritime operations.