Complete Maritime Profile & Reviews of Eckert-Oldendorff

The International Transport Workers Federation (ITF) has raised significant concerns about the welfare of approximately 20 crew members aboard the bulk carrier "Eckert Oldendorff," which docked at Port Pirie on May 8, 2019. Reports indicate that the vessel had been anchored in the Spencer Gulf for roughly four to six weeks when the ITF was alerted to accusations regarding insufficient water supplies for the crew. Compounding these issues, an engine room fire broke out on May 20 as the ship departed the port. Further claims have emerged, allegedly stating that crew members were not receiving adequate meals and had been cautioned against communicating with outsiders, particularly union representatives. Dean Summers, the ITF's national coordinator, has reached out to the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) urging them to launch a thorough investigation into the vessel's conditions. Having been notified about the situation about a month prior, the ITF expressed alarm at new allegations suggesting that the captain threatened crew members with retribution for speaking to ITF representatives. Summers remarked, "Oldendorff refuses to agree on collective bargaining terms that would set essential standards for seafarers and undermines their right to freedom of association. I brought these issues to the AMSA, which has a duty to probe into these matters, focusing first on human needs and the rights of seafarers to associate freely." On May 23, the AMSA acknowledged awareness of the complaints regarding on-board conditions and has initiated discussions with the ship's master. During these talks, the master confirmed that while water supply for laundering had been rationed due to the prolonged anchorage, food and water provisions were deemed adequate, with plans to resupply during the anchorage. Following a 24-hour berth in Port Pirie to replenish supplies, the vessel returned to its anchorage. The AMSA conducted an inspection on May 9, affirming that the "Eckert Oldendorff" was sufficiently provisioned for its forthcoming journey and reported no grievances concerning shore leave, wages, or restrictions on crew associations during their time aboard. The ITF remains steadfast in its efforts to urge Oldendorff to recognize seafarers through collective agreements, while pressing the AMSA to ensure a comprehensive investigation into these allegations from a regulatory standpoint.

On January 15, 2019, the bulk carrier 'Eckert Oldendorff,' sailing from Antwerp to Las Palmas, encountered a sensor malfunction while navigating approximately 20 miles southeast of St. Cats Point, Isle of Wight, with its crew of 22 on board. The incident occurred at coordinates 050 20 11.0 N 000 55 23.0 W. Fortunately, the issue was swiftly addressed, with the replacement taking just one hour. After successfully resolving the malfunction, the 'Eckert Oldendorff' continued its journey towards Tenerife, resuming its voyage at 8:50 p.m.