Reviews & Ratings for the Blue

Following a period of uncertainty, two Filipino seafarers who sustained injuries in the recent drone attack on the vessel 'Blue' have successfully returned to the Philippines. The Department of Migrant Workers has confirmed their safe arrival and is ensuring that the injured crew members receive the essential support and assistance they need during this recovery phase.

On the morning of July 8, 2026, the Russian tanker 'Blue,' part of the sanctioned shadow fleet, sustained substantial damage when it was targeted by a Ukrainian military drone. The incident occurred off the coast of Yalta, located in the temporarily occupied region of Crimea, which falls within Ukraine's exclusive economic zone. Despite efforts by Russian military aircraft to intercept the drone before the attack, they were unsuccessful. The unmanned Sea Baby drone, enduring heavy machine-gun fire, managed to strike the port side stern of the 'Blue,' leading to extensive damage. This incident marks a significant escalation in maritime confrontations in the area. For a closer look at the event, watch the video here: https://twitter.com/i/status/2074853509451911406.

The tanker 'Blue', currently under sanctions from both the UK and European Union, has attracted significant scrutiny for its operations. While laden with crude oil, the ship turned off its AIS (Automatic Identification System) signal just prior to entering the Irish Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). This incident occurred following its departure from Ust-Luga on July 31, 2025. Notably, 'Blue' is operating under a false flag, misleadingly registering in Benin. This vessel has exhibited concerning behavior since 2020, having assumed four different identities and registered under six various flags, including Benin, Antigua and Barbuda, Liberia, Palau, Djibouti, and Cyprus. Since 2024, it has reportedly been managed from Turkey. Environmental watchdog Greenpeace has expressed alarm over the 'Blue' and its potential threats to marine ecosystems. In response to the rising influence of shadow fleet tankers within the Irish EEZ, the Irish Coast Guard has enhanced its surveillance strategies utilizing both the Air Corps and Naval Service. However, in contrast to the UK's proactive measures and those of Baltic nations, Irish authorities have yet to implement direct challenges to these vessels to verify their identities and insurance details. After a brief period of silence, the 'Blue' reactivated its AIS on August 8, revealing its course towards the Suez Canal at a speed of 10 knots. Analysts suggest that the tanker is likely en route to India, a nation continuing to import Russian oil despite the ongoing sanctions and controversies surrounding such shipments.