Bourbon-Explorer-502 Ship Details and Seafarer Feedback

On February 28, 2019, at 08:15 a.m., the offshore supply vessel 'Bourbon Explorer 502', sailing in position 03° 52' 48" N and 007° 04' 50" E, approximately 20 miles SSW of Bonny Island, faced a perilous encounter. The vessel came under assault from a group of 16 armed pirates aboard two high-speed boats. Upon detection of the threat, the crew raised the alarm and executed critical anti-piracy procedures, including increasing speed and maneuvering evasively. Non-essential staff were swiftly mustered in the citadel for safety. In a timely response, an escorting security vessel intervened, successfully repelling the attackers. Despite sustaining bullet damage to the bridge during the confrontation, all crew members were reported safe. Following the incident, a Nigerian Navy vessel was dispatched to escort the Bourbon Explorer 502 to safety, ensuring a secure passage to port.