Discover the Ardmore-Encounter: Ratings & Maritime News

On December 13, the 'Ardmore Encounter', en route from Mangalore, faced a perilous situation when an armed speedboat approached with hostility. The aggressive vessel, powered by two engines and racing at 20 knots, closed in on the tanker after its crew declined requests from Yemeni forces to alter its northward trajectory. In a violent confrontation, the speedboat unleashed a barrage of up to ten gunshots aimed at the 'Ardmore Encounter' from only 300 meters away. Fortunately, the tanker continued on its course, under the safeguarding and directives of the USS 'Mason', a nearby warship. In response, Yemeni Houthi forces retaliated by launching two missiles at the tanker. Remarkably, defense measures were effective, as one missile was intercepted, while the other detonated roughly 200 yards behind the vessel, causing no harm to the tanker or its crew. Thanks to these fortuitous circumstances, all crew members remained unharmed, and the vessel reported no damages, maintaining full operational capability without any loss of cargo. The 'Ardmore Encounter' was subsequently deemed out of immediate danger.

On December 13, 2023, an alarming incident occurred when two missiles launched from Houthi-controlled territory in Yemen narrowly missed the tanker 'Ardmore Encounter', which was carrying a cargo of jet fuel for Shell MRPL Aviation Fuels & Services Ltd. This incident unfolded near the strategically crucial Bab el-Mandeb Strait, marking the first attack on an energy shipment on its way to the Suez Canal. During the same operation, an American warship successfully intercepted and destroyed a suspected Houthi drone that was threatening the area. Thankfully, no casualties were reported as a result of the missile attack. This strike on the Ardmore Encounter is part of a broader and escalating offensive by the Iranian-backed Houthi rebels, aimed at targeting vessels navigating close to the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. Additionally, it highlights the expanding geopolitical ramifications of the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza. At the time of the attack, the tanker was en route from Mangalore, navigating northwards in the Red Sea towards the Suez Canal, and was equipped with an armed security team. All crew members aboard the Ardmore Encounter were confirmed safe and the vessel sustained no damage, with its cargo completely intact. The operator, Ardmore, maintained close communication with relevant authorities and military support was dispatched to the area to assist as needed.

In a significant maritime transaction, Ardmore Shipping, a prominent Irish shipping company, has successfully purchased a vessel for an impressive US$ 29.2 million. This acquisition marks a noteworthy addition to Ardmore's fleet, emphasizing the company's commitment to expanding its operations in the shipping industry.