Working Conditions Aboard the Ocean-Faye

In a significant ruling, the Kerala High Court has declared the arrest of the vessel 'Ocean Faye', which was operating under the name 'Glacia', as unlawful. This judgment arose from an admiralty lawsuit filed by Lighthouse Marine Service India Pvt. Ltd., who sought to recover unpaid crew wages and services rendered to three additional vessels. The court has also ordered the return of ₹1.03 crore that had been previously deposited as security by the vessel's charterer. The ruling was delivered by a bench headed by Justice M.A. Abdul Hakhim, who adjudicated a petition submitted by the charterer and ship manager of the tanker. The court determined that Lighthouse Marine Service did not possess the legal right to arrest the vessel for alleged debts owed by its manager. Previously, the Lighthouse Marine Service had received a court order on May 31, 2025, which allowed for the arrest of the ship in Cochin until a security amount was provided. The claim was for ₹94.44 lakh related to crew services for three tankers—'Eastern Pearl', 'Fast Kathy', and 'Sea Fidelity'—all of which are managed by Star Voyage Shipping Services LLC. Following the court’s order, the charterer had deposited ₹1.03 crore as a security to facilitate the vessel's release. Upon careful examination, the court concluded that the arrest was executed wrongly, pointing out that Star Voyage acts merely as a ship manager and not as an owner. According to Section 5(1)(a) of the Admiralty Act, the seizure of a vessel based on a maritime claim necessitates shared ownership between the parties involved.

In a swift response to recent security threats, the tanker 'Regal I' (IMO: 9247431) departed from Novorossiysk on the morning of September 24, 2025, after a series of aerial and marine drone assaults that took place the previous day. The vessel reported a draft that confirmed it was fully loaded, indicating a significant cargo aboard. Alongside it, the 'Navigator Ridge' also made its exit from the port area. Meanwhile, operations at the Caspian Pipeline Consortium terminal and Transneft PJSC’s Sheskharis facility resumed after a temporary pause on September 23, introduced as a precaution during the height of the drone activity. Sirens were sounded in Novorossiysk, with local authorities alerting residents to the potential for further drone incursions. Unfortunately, two individuals were reported injured in relation to these assaults. As a safety measure, operations at local offices have been suspended, with employees transitioning to remote work until further notice.

A new charter agreement has been successfully established, locking in a trade rate of $14,500 for a one-year period with VITOL. This agreement marks a significant step in operational planning and strategic partnership for the involved parties.

The maritime industry welcomes the newly launched Viken Crude, an innovative oil tanker poised to enhance Norway's shipping capabilities. Owned by engine entrepreneur Frederik W. Mohn and Viken Shipping, this vessel is part of a robust fleet that features both current vessels and new builds slated for delivery in 2017 and 2018. With its state-of-the-art design and advanced technology, Viken Crude is set to play a vital role in the oil transportation sector, reinforcing Norway's commitment to excellence in maritime operations.