What Crew Members Say About Aylin

The icebreaker Kapitan Demidov, operated by FSUE Rosmorport, has successfully towed the distressed M/V Orel-1 to safety at the Kavkaz port, which serves as the Azov Headquarters for Ice Operations. After ensuring the Orel-1 was securely escorted, the Kapitan Demidov joined forces with fellow Rosmorport icebreaker, Kapitan Chudinov, to carve a navigable channel for the M/V Gas Monarch. The M/V Orel-1, under the Ukrainian flag, experienced a significant hull breach while navigating the southern regions of the Azov Sea, prompting the urgent assistance from these dedicated icebreakers.

The Orel-1, a freighter navigating the Kerch Strait, faced a serious predicament when it became trapped in ice, resulting in potential breaches to its hull. The situation developed on or around February 18, prompting the vessel to call for assistance. In response, two icebreakers and an ice-class tug were dispatched to aid the distressed ship. According to the master of Orel-1, water ingress was under control thanks to the vessel's pump systems, and it remained in stable condition despite the challenges. The freighter was subsequently taken under tow and moved to the Chushka Split area. As of 0000 UTC on February 20, the Orel-1 was reported to be at coordinates 45 34N 36 67E, either anchored or adrift, with no immediate threats to its safety. The freighter had embarked from a Russian port in the Azov Sea and had been immobilized in ice since early February. For more comprehensive maritime updates, visit the Maritime Bulletin at http://www.odin.tc.