Read Authentic Ratings for the Donald-M-James

On September 4, 2023, the bulk carrier 'Donald M. James' departed from Brest, France, being towed by the tug 'Abeille Horizon'. This operation marks a significant step as the vessel makes its way to the Lisnave shipyard in Setubal, Portugal, where it is scheduled for extensive repairs. The convoy had previously stopped in Brest at the end of August before resuming its journey, with an estimated arrival time set for September 10. The 'Donald M. James' faced immobilization in Bremerhaven since March 11, 2023, due to damage sustained to its rudder. For more details and visuals of the tow, visit the full report: https://www.meretmarine.com/fr/marine-marchande/l-abeille-horizon-remorque-un-vraquier-vers-le-portugal.

The bulk carrier 'Donald M. James' has found temporary refuge in the port of Brest as of August 25. This vessel has faced significant challenges, having been sidelined since March 11 due to a rudder blade malfunction. After a lengthy waiting period of over five months, the ship is now poised to proceed to the repair facilities at Lisnave shipyard in Setubal. Recently, on August 19, the 'Donald M. James' was taken under tow by the tugboat 'Abeille Horizon', and is currently docked at repair berth number four in Brest's commercial port. The vessel was assisted by the AMB agency upon its arrival. It is anticipated that 'Donald M. James' will set sail again when weather conditions improve. As of August 29, the ship remains stationary, continuing its wait for favorable sailing conditions.

The self-discharging bulk carrier 'Donald M. James', which had been undergoing inspection and repairs at the Lloyd Yard in Bremerhaven since March 11, has recently vacated the port. The ship was drydocked following a significant incident where it lost its rudder. On August 19, after a series of damage assessments, the vessel departed without securing a repair contract. Currently, it is being towed by the offshore tug 'Abeille Horizon' (IMO: 9178410) toward Setubal, where it is scheduled to arrive by September 6 for necessary permanent repairs. The vessel's status is listed as NUC (Not Under Command), highlighting ongoing concerns regarding its seaworthiness and repair needs.

On March 11, the self-discharging vessel 'Donald James' was towed from Bremen to Bremerhaven by the tugboats 'VB Pioneer' (IMO: 9190614) and 'Fairplay 31' (IMO: 9416575) after suffering significant rudder damage. The incident occurred on February 17 when the ship's stern became lodged against the opposite embankment of the Weser River at Hasenbüren while it was preparing to cast off from the Steel Works Bremen. This mishap resulted in damage to the steering gear. 'Donald James' had arrived in Bremen on February 16, having traveled from Narvik. Following its tow, the vessel was safely docked at Lloyd Yard in Bremerhaven on March 12 to undergo necessary repairs. For a closer look at the event, watch the video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y14nlma8rEo.