Dona-Annette Vessel Reviews and Specifications

After a prolonged 17-day hold, the tanker Doña Annette is finally cleared to proceed with its voyage through Argentine waters. The ship was released following extensive negotiations that ultimately led to its authorization for transit, granted on November 28 at approximately 7:00 p.m. Notably, the Doña Annette will continue its journey under a new captain, marking a significant change for the vessel as it resumes its operations in the region.

The Argentine Naval Prefecture has come to an agreement allowing the release of the tanker 'Doña Annette' under specific conditions. This arrangement will enable captains with more than 26 voyages within a three-year timeframe to navigate the vessel autonomously, eliminating the requirement for Argentine pilots. The ship, which was detained for over 15 days, incurred significant financial losses totaling nearly $700,000. The arrest occurred near km 602 of the Paraná River on November 11, following allegations of failing to comply with regulations mandating the presence of two Argentine pilots on board.

Tensions are escalating within the Paraguayan maritime industry following the extended detention of the 'Doña Annette' at kilometer 602 of the Paraná River by the Argentine Naval Prefecture. The vessel has been held up due to the requirement of two expensive Argentinean pilots for its onward journey, a situation that is viewed as a breach of the Treaty of Free Navigation established between Paraguay and Argentina since 1967. On November 15, representatives from the Paraguayan Maritime Company, the owner of the 'Doña Annette', and members of the shipowners' association Cafym held a press conference at the Paraguayan Industrial Union (UIP) to address the substantial economic repercussions stemming from this incident. They highlighted the loss of their berth in Buenos Aires and the uncertainty of having to wait for their turn upon the ship's release. Criticism was directed at the Paraguayan Foreign Ministry for its perceived inaction in safeguarding the rights of Paraguayan vessels and pilots, as well as for upholding the principles of free navigation stipulated in the Treaty.