Working Conditions Aboard the Hermes

The bulk carrier Seaburg 1 has encountered yet another detention, marking its third within a year, as it was held on August 11, 2023, in Aliaga, Turkey. This recent check unveiled 23 deficiencies, with eight categorized as serious enough to warrant immediate action. The highlighted issues include: 1. Certificate & Document discrepancies 2. Non-compliance of fire doors and openings within fire-resisting divisions 3. Poor maintenance of fire detection and alarm systems 4. An unapproved Ballast Water Management Plan 5. Inadequate completion of the Ballast Water Record Book 6. Improper marking of freeboard marks 7. Inoperative emergency lighting, batteries, and switches 8. ISM certificate non-compliance After rectifying these deficiencies, the Seaburg 1 was cleared to depart on August 18, continuing its journey towards Abu Qir. Previously, the ship was detained on June 10, 2023, in Limassol, Cyprus, for 29 deficiencies and remained in port for 24 days, followed by another detention on December 13, 2022, in Ceyhan, where it was held for 24 days due to 35 deficiencies. The vessel's repeat issues raise concerns regarding compliance with maritime safety and environmental regulations.

The vessel 'Seaburg 1' encountered significant regulatory issues during its inspection on June 10, 2026, in Limassol, Cyprus, leading to its detention due to 29 recorded deficiencies. Out of these, 24 were classified as serious enough to warrant immediate action. Among the critical concerns were missing endorsements by the flag state and multiple expired or invalid safety certificates, including the Maritime Labour Certificate and various pollution prevention certifications. Essential safety equipment showed alarming signs of neglect, with the emergency fire pump deemed inoperative and several life-saving appliances not properly maintained. Further deficiencies included non-functional oil filtering equipment and missing records of seafarers' daily work hours, all posing risks to the vessel's crew and the marine environment. Following corrective actions, the 'Seaburg 1' was released on July 3, 2026, and departed for Pozzallo, anticipated to arrive by July 8. This incident follows a previous detention on December 13, 2025, in Ceyhan, where the vessel was held for 24 days due to 35 deficiencies noted during inspection. The recurring issues raise concerns about compliance and maritime safety standards aboard the 'Seaburg 1'.

On October 30, 2016, the cargo vessel 'United Ocean' experienced a fire in its engine room while navigating the Mediterranean Sea, approximately 100 miles northeast of Misrata. The ship was making its way from Misrata to Algeria when it became disabled and drifted, prompting a distress signal to be sent at 8 a.m. In response, the Italian Navy dispatched the patrol vessel 'Mimbelli' to provide assistance. Additionally, the Norwegian offshore vessel 'Siem Pilot,' actively involved in FRONTEX operations, arrived to help and successfully towed the 'United Ocean' to safety, securing it off the coast of Valletta on November 3 at 3:30 a.m. Thankfully, all 12 crew members aboard were reported safe, with no injuries sustained during the incident.

After an extensive five-month period docked in Shoreham Harbour, the bulk carrier United Ocean has finally resumed its voyage. Originally detained by Port State Control in November due to several safety issues, the ship underwent necessary repairs and received clearance to depart on March 14. The vessel made its way out of the harbour just five days later, marking the end of its prolonged stay. The berth previously occupied by United Ocean is set to welcome a new ship soon, ensuring the flow of import and export activities continues throughout Sussex via Shoreham Port. Julian Seaman, the harbour master and director of marine operations at Shoreham Port, expressed his satisfaction, stating: "Shoreham Port is pleased that the vessel has been released and has now sailed." For further details, visit Shoreham Herald.