The Athena-Seaways: Crew Feedback and Vessel Data

On July 2, 2019, at approximately 10 p.m., two passengers tragically fell overboard from the ferry 'Athena Seaways' while it was navigating south of Öland. Despite an extensive search operation lasting nearly six hours, the efforts were ultimately called off as the chances of survival diminished. Throughout the evening, rescue teams mobilized a significant search operation in the Baltic Sea, deploying two helicopters and multiple vessels, including larger commercial ships in the vicinity. The search concluded at 3:30 a.m. on July 3, transitioning the case over to local police authorities for further investigation. At the time, weather conditions included air temperatures of 12 degrees Celsius, water temperatures at 16 degrees Celsius, and wind speeds ranging from 11 to 14 meters per second. The two missing individuals were identified as Lithuanian nationals. The 'Athena Seaways' operates on the route between Karlshamn, Sweden, and Klaipeda, Lithuania.

On June 22, 2019, the DFDS ferry 'Athena Seaways' played a pivotal role in rescuing the crew of the Polish yacht 'Xela,' which was in distress between Sweden and Lithuania. The yacht, carrying eight individuals, signaled for emergency assistance amidst treacherous weather conditions characterized by waves reaching up to 2.5 meters. The situation grew dire as the crew experienced severe seasickness and cold temperatures, with nearly the entire team succumbing to symptoms within just 30 minutes. A crew member even lost consciousness briefly as the situation deteriorated rapidly. Additionally, the 'Xela' experienced serious water ingress that overwhelmed its bilge pump capacity, prompting the skipper to call for help. The 'Athena Seaways' responded swiftly, arriving on the scene within 50 minutes of the mayday call. A man overboard (MOB) boat was deployed to assist the crew in need. Just 50 minutes later, all sailors were successfully transferred to the ferry. Upon arrival at the port of Klaipeda, the seven remaining crew members were taken to the hospital for precautionary medical evaluations. This dramatic rescue highlights the critical role of maritime vessels in ensuring safety at sea. For further details and photos, you can visit the following links: [Maritime Denmark](https://maritimedanmark.dk/?Id=41286) and [Sail Book](https://sailbook.pl/kilka-slow-o-tym-co-wydarzylo-sie-na-jachcie-xela/).

On May 31, 2016, DFDS officially executed its purchase option for the 'Athena Seaways' from Grimaldi Holding Spa. This vessel, equipped with comprehensive cargo and passenger amenities, is strategically positioned to meet both current and future demands in the Baltic market. DFDS had previouslyentered into a bareboat charter for the ferry in December 2013. Since that time, 'Athena Seaways' has been a key asset within the DFDS Baltic route network, primarily serving the Kiel-Klaipeda and Karlshamn-Klaipeda routes. This service has been instrumental in transporting driver-accompanied trucks as well as passengers journeying with their own vehicles.