What Crew Members Say About Cali

In a distressing event that unfolded on January 4, 2026, the container ship MV Cali, which was navigating near the coordinates 35-08.8 N and 006-57.3 W, reported a crew member missing after going overboard. The vessel was en route from Tangier-Med to Tema at the time of the incident and had an estimated arrival date of January 11, 2026. Authorities urged nearby vessels to maintain heightened vigilance and promptly report any sightings to the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) in Morocco as search efforts continue.

In an exciting development for the shipping industry, Maersk has successfully secured a new charter contract. This deal involves trading across Asia and Australia for a duration of 30 to 40 days, with a daily rate established at $12,500. This strategic move underscores Maersk's continuing commitment to expanding its operations in key maritime routes within the Asia-Pacific region.

In a notable development for maritime legal affairs, the 'Hanjin California' was re-arrested for the second time by the Federal Court of Australia on September 8. This latest legal action was executed by Federal Court Marshals at the vessel's current dock at Glebe Island 1, Port of Sydney, following a complaint from Chemoil. Previously, the ship had been detained due to separate claims from both Chemoil and Glencore. Notably, two entities, DP World Australia and Torres Pilots, have lodged caveats against the arrest linked to the Glencore issue. Currently, the 'Hanjin California' is carrying approximately 60 empty export containers, in addition to 40-60 boxes of export cargo that were loaded in Brisbane. A hearing held on September 16 in the Federal Court addressed the status of the crew, prompting the vessel’s representatives to clarify arrangements concerning crew wages and other welfare provisions. The ongoing legal entanglements highlight the complexities faced by vessels operating in international waters and the significant repercussions of maritime disputes.

The Hanjin California remains under arrest, despite relocation from its previous berth at the Hutchison Terminal located within Port Botany. Recently, an Admiralty Marshal of the Federal Court of Australia executed a directive from a maritime judge to transfer the vessel from Hayes Dock 2 at Port Botany to Glebe 1 at Glebe Island, Port of Sydney. This transfer, which occurred on September 6, was further constrained by a stipulation that the movement could not commence prior to 1 p.m. on September 7. Initially, the Hanjin California docked at the Hutchison Terminal on September 3, where it discharged all cargo destined for Australia. However, following a warrant from Glencore Singapore regarding unpaid debts, the ship was subsequently placed under arrest at the Hutchison Terminal.