Working Conditions Aboard the Akaki

In the latest maritime development, Oldendorff has successfully secured a new charter agreement. The arrangement entails a duration of 4 to 6 months, with the vessel set to operate out of Dunkirk promptly. The financial terms of the charter are set at a daily rate of $15,750. This charter reinforces Oldendorff's strong presence in the shipping industry.

On October 24, 2018, the cargo vessel 'Akaki' encountered significant engine troubles while navigating the Celtic Sea, approximately 20 nautical miles southeast of the Isles of Scilly. The ship, carrying a crew of 21 and loaded with 7,859 metric tonnes of iron ore, initially reported being Not Under Command (NUC) around 01:30 a.m. due to an engine valve issue. At that time, it was situated at coordinates 49 36 09.2N, 006 04 43.0W. After preliminary repairs seemed successful, the vessel proceeded to transit eastbound through the Traffic Separation Scheme (TSS). However, just four nautical miles ESE of the TSS exit, 'Akaki' faced another engine failure and again reported being NUC as the crew struggled to restart the engine. Despite replacing the injector valve of cylinder No.1, the vessel continued to experience difficulties, resulting in yet another stoppage. Notably, no tugboat was dispatched to assist during this incident, and the Duty Coastal Port State Office (DCPSO) was alerted, with coordination ongoing between the Duty CPSO and Duty Surveyor. Furthermore, the ship was also carrying low sulphur marine gas oil as part of its bunkers. As the situation unfolded, the 'Akaki' managed to anchor at Falmouth Bay, located 11 miles SSE of Lizard Point, on October 25, at 8:45 a.m., while the crew worked diligently to remedy the engine issues. Due to regulations, the vessel was restricted from approaching within 10 nautical miles of the coast without a tug for escort or tow. Eventually, at 2:40 p.m. on October 28, the ship resumed its journey, with Dunkirk in sight and expected to arrive by October 29.

In a significant development within the maritime industry, Ultrabulk has successfully finalized a new charter deal worth $13,850 per day. This agreement is set to span a duration of nine months, reflecting Ultrabulk's strategic focus on expanding its operational capabilities. The charter underscores the ongoing demand for shipping services and Ultrabulk's commitment to providing reliable transport solutions in the shipping sector.