The Cindy: Crew Feedback and Vessel Data

On February 19, 2022, the VLCC 'Dream Vision' successfully conducted a partial cargo transfer of crude oil from the troubled and U.S.-sanctioned tanker 'Maximo Gorki' (IMO: 9590008) east of Singapore in the Riau archipelago. The 'Maximo Gorki,' which has faced persistent mechanical issues since January, set sail from Venezuela in November 2021 as part of an effort by the cash-strapped state oil company Petroleos de Venezuela (PDVSA) to generate much-needed funds amidst U.S. trading sanctions imposed since 2019. The sanctioned vessel was unable to fulfill a delivery agreement due to delays caused by its operational troubles, leading PDVSA to seek alternate vessels for the at-sea transfer. U.S. authorities have been closely monitoring the 'Maximo Gorki,' tracking its movements as it encountered difficulties. After navigating through Indonesia’s Lombok Strait and reportedly switching off its transponder, the tanker made two unsuccessful attempts at ship-to-ship transfers, which further delayed the offloading of its Merey 16 crude cargo. It remains uncertain whether additional cargo transfers will occur before the 'Maximo Gorki' returns to Venezuelan waters. Meanwhile, the 'Dream Vision' arrived at Port Klang on February 21, marking a significant operational event amid the ongoing complexities surrounding sanctioned maritime activities.

A vessel has recently been sold for $9.5 million to a group of buyers from Greece. The transaction is currently under evaluation, with the ship's SS/DD due soon. This sale marks another notable event in the maritime industry, reflecting ongoing interest in shipping assets.

On September 29, 2014, the Liberian-registered tanker Krasnodar, operated by Sovcomflot, executed a heroic rescue mission for six stranded sailors off the coast of Brazil, approximately 30 miles from land. The unfortunate incident unfolded when Brazilian sailors were competing in the Regata Internacional Recife on their 10-meter trimaran, Nativo. Late Saturday night, while navigating challenging sea conditions at speeds of about 20 knots, a critical structural failure occurred when one of the trimaran's cross-members broke, leading to the vessel's swift capsizing around 2300 hours. Skipper Jorge Neves and his five crew members found themselves in a precarious situation, clinging to the submerged hull until sunrise. Ultimately, they opted to abandon ship and took refuge in a liferaft. Fortunately, the next morning, the Krasnodar located the liferaft and successfully rescued the sailors, bringing them safely aboard. This incident highlights the importance of maritime safety and the vital role of ships like the Krasnodar in ensuring the well-being of those on the water.