Read Authentic Ratings for the Argo-B

Off the coast of Tynemouth, three bulk carriers—the 'Vyritsa', 'Brasschaat', and 'Zarechensk'—are anchored as the situation surrounding their future remains uncertain. These vessels, owned by the Belgian shipping company Sobelmar Antwerp NV, which has been linked to bankruptcy claims, show no signs of departing. Since their previous crews disembarked in June 2016, replacement teams have been maintaining the ships. Registered under SBM-1 INC, a subsidiary of Sobelmar with the same address in Belgium, the vessels were initially part of Sobelmar's strategy to rejuvenate an aging fleet. Reports indicating Sobelmar was seeking bankruptcy protection surfaced as early as 2015, impacting operations that included shipments of fertilizers, grain, coal, and 800,000 tonnes of apatite concentrate annually between Murmansk, Western Europe, and the Baltics. The fourth vessel initially in this group, the 'Kovdor', is believed to be stranded in Malta. Between June 10 and 22, 2023, operations for the 'Vyritsa', 'Brasschaat', and 'Zarechensk' were taken over by the India-based Bernhard Schulte Ship Management, which has since ensured that crews operate onboard. Currently anchored outside the jurisdiction of the Port of Tyne, the vessels have been deemed to be in good condition by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency following inspections. However, amid ongoing efforts to sell the ships, no clear timeline has emerged regarding their departure. The Sobelmar website lists 'Brasschaat' next dry dock date as April 2017, 'Zarechensk' as December 2017, and for 'Vyritsa', the last dry dock occurred in June 2013. Meanwhile, crews aboard the vessels continue to receive timely meals and compensation, ensuring their welfare while the bulk carriers remain securely anchored. For further details, including photos and video, visit: http://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/news/north-east-news/stranded-ships-tynemouths-visitors-now-11973545.

New York: In a significant development for the Belgian bulk carrier operator Sobelmar, the Hartford, Connecticut court has approved its request for interim relief under Chapter 11 bankruptcy, as announced on Tuesday. This ruling allows Sobelmar to maintain operations unhindered, as its fleet of four bulk carriers – namely Brasschaat (IMO: 9471474, 31,800 dwt, built in 2009), Vyritsa (IMO: 9471475, 35,314 dwt, built in 2010), Kovdor (IMO: 9471476, 35,315 dwt, built in 2010), and Zarachensk (IMO: 9471477, 31,800 dwt, built in 2009) – can continue their voyages without disruption. The company is set to meet all voyage-related expenses, including crew wages and insurance costs. A representative from Sobelmar emphasized, "Our operations with vendors, clients, and charter agreements remain unaffected. We are now authorized to fulfill our operational obligations and commitments with our charter partners seamlessly." Sobelmar's decision to pursue Chapter 11 stemmed from challenges faced with one of its creditors. This court decision marks a pivotal moment for Sobelmar, ensuring that the company can navigate through its financial difficulties while continuing to serve its commitments.