The Barlovento-Express: Crew Feedback and Vessel Data

In a notable maritime development, the Directorate General of the Spanish Merchant Navy has greenlit the rebranding of the vessel formerly known as 'Vittorio M' to its new identity, 'Barlovento Express'. This change has been officially recorded in the naval registry of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, marking a new chapter for the ship, which originally debuted as 'Milenium Dos'. Now under a long-term charter to Fred. Olsen Express from the Italian firm Liberty Lines, the Barlovento Express is currently docked at the Astican Yard. The vessel arrived at the yard on December 2, 2024, after making its way from Algeciras sporting the corporate branding of Trasmediterránea. During its stay, the ship is undergoing several modifications to align with Fred. Olsen Express standards, including the replacement of its stern ramp.

During its journey from Ceuta to Algeciras, the vessel 'Millenium Dos' encountered an unexpected situation on January 13, 2020. Shortly after departing Ceuta at 9:30 a.m., the crew made a startling discovery one mile off the port: a Maghreb immigrant concealed alongside the ship's engines. The ship's captain, prioritizing safety, immediately halted the vessel to address the potential risk to the crew's well-being and alerted the Maritime Service of the Civil Guard. A rescue boat was dispatched to retrieve the migrant, who was subsequently taken to the marina in Algeciras. After a health assessment confirmed he was in good condition, authorities turned to the National Police for identification. Depending on his nationality—Moroccan or Algerian—he faced different outcomes: expulsion for Moroccans or relocation to the Temporary Immigrant Stay Center (CETI) for Algerians. The 'Millenium Dos' eventually docked in Algeciras, arriving approximately 25 minutes behind schedule.

A significant maritime incident unfolded on January 13, 2012, when the cargo vessel m/v "New Glory", under the flag of the Marshall Islands, collided with the passenger ferry "Milenium Dos". The collision occurred at approximately 7:50 p.m., approximately five miles north of Ceuta. At the time of the accident, the "Milenium Dos" was en route to Ceuta, carrying 184 passengers, 18 crew members, and 43 vehicles. The violent impact caused both vessels to become locked together. Emergency services responded swiftly, with one crew member from the "Milenium Dos" sustaining injuries and subsequently being airlifted to a hospital for treatment. The incident took place as the "New Glory" was navigating the Eastbound traffic lane of the Straits, traveling eastbound, while the "Milenium Dos" was heading north towards Ceuta. For additional coverage, including video footage of the event, please refer to the Italian report available at http://www.ceutatv.com/index_noticias.php.