Advantage-Value Ship Details and Seafarer Feedback

The crude oil tanker New Medal, with a gross tonnage of 156,702 and launched in 2009, encountered a significant engine failure shortly after unloading a massive 290,000 tonnes of crude oil. The incident occurred at 05:30 hours on October 13, 2023, while the vessel was navigating the Almirante Maximiano da Fonseca-Tebig terminal in Ilha Grande Bay, located in Angra dos Reis, Brazil. This unexpected mechanical failure led to an emergency maneuver, creating a ripple effect that disrupted terminal operations and navigation in the area. Utilizing the expertise of five port tugboats, the New Medal was carefully maneuvered away to avoid potential collisions, as there was limited space for the vessel to turn. The pilot made the strategic decision to lift the anchor, ensuring a safer position for the tanker. After approximately twelve hours of intensive repairs, the engines were restored to operational status, allowing the vessel to proceed toward the anchorage area. Before the New Medal is cleared to depart the port, a thorough inspection will be conducted to ensure its seaworthiness.

China VLCC, a prominent joint venture between China Merchants Energy Shipping (CMES) and Sinotrans, has announced the sale of two of its VLCCs (Very Large Crude Carriers) to companies registered in the Marshall Islands. The vessels, each constructed within a six to seven-year timeframe, have garnered a combined sale price of $133 million. The vessels involved in the transaction include a 297,600-dwt ship and a 297,400-dwt ship, which are being sold to single-ship entities Tilos Shipping Corp and Delos Shipping Corp, respectively. According to maritime records, the larger vessel is likely either the New Medal (2009) or New Coral (2010), while the smaller tanker may be identified as New Founder (2008) or New Talent (2009). These sales hinge on the approval of China VLCC's board of directors, though no additional details about the agreements have been publicly disclosed. This strategic move reflects China VLCC's ongoing efforts to optimize its fleet and respond to market dynamics.

The VLCC NEW MEDAL finds itself off the coast of Cape Town as it progresses towards Bonny, Nigeria, despite being #54 on the list of 113 vessels restricted from entering Nigerian waters by the NNPC. The ship's ETA, as reported through AIS, remains set for August 11. To maintain this timeline, New Medal must increase its speed to around 14 knots. However, recent reports indicate that the vessel is currently cruising at a reduced speed of just 9 knots. This drop in pace may be linked to its present location and the navigational challenges in the area. For the latest updates, visit http://info.genscape.com/vesseltracker.