The Antarctic-Dream: Crew Feedback and Vessel Data

The vessel ANTARCTIC DREAM (IMO: 5278432) has been flagged for abandonment, bringing attention to the challenging conditions faced by seafarers. Reported to the International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF) on August 1, 2022, this ship, registered under the flag of St Kitts & Nevis, is docked in the Maldives. Currently, the crew comprises 20 seafarers from Indonesia, the Philippines, and Sri Lanka, who have been awaiting two months of unpaid wages. As of now, the situation remains open, highlighting an urgent need for resolution. This information is compiled from the ITF's Seafarers Abandonment List, which diligently monitors cases of crew abandonment across the globe.

On March 24, 2020, the Houthi militia apprehended the United Nations (UN) chartered vessel 'Antarctic Dream' at the strategic port of Hodeidah, Yemen. This incident marks the second occasion on which the Houthis have obstructed the UN Hodeidah mission's efforts, preventing the vessel from departing Hodeidah for Mokha. The 'Antarctic Dream' was scheduled to embark at 6 a.m. on March 24, carrying government army officers to the port of Mokha as part of ongoing ceasefire operations. Since its lease by the UN Hodeidah Mission in 2019, the 'Antarctic Dream' has been instrumental in facilitating meetings for the UN Redeployment Coordination Committee at a neutral anchorage near Hodeidah. The ongoing interference by Houthi forces raises concerns about the stability of ceasefire initiatives in the region.