Forward Vessel Reviews and Specifications

On May 13, 2025, the maritime authorities detained the vessel 'Forward' in Gemlik, identifying a total of 15 deficiencies on board. Among these deficiencies, eight were classified as severe enough to warrant detention. The critical issues included malfunctioning life-saving appliances, specifically the inflatable liferafts, which were found not ready for use. Additionally, the cleanliness of the engine room was deemed insufficient, compromising living and working conditions on the vessel. Fire safety was another area of concern; the personal equipment for fire safety did not meet regulatory requirements, and the firefighting equipment and appliances were also found lacking. Structural integrity issues were noted, with cracks present on the decks, and the ballast, fuel, and other tanks were not compliant with necessary standards. Furthermore, the Ballast Water Management System was reported as malfunctioning. Observations indicated that the International Safety Management (ISM) certificate was not in accordance with required norms. After a thorough review and subsequent improvements, the 'Forward' was released from detention on May 25, 2025, and was granted permission for a single voyage destined for Rostov-on-Don to carry out necessary repairs.

On November 28, 2016, at approximately 11:15 a.m., a maritime incident occurred in the Anadolu Hirasi region of the Bosphorus Strait, where the vessel 'Forward' collided with the bulk carrier 'Wadi Al Karnak' as the latter was navigating southward, close to the 2nd Bosphorus Bridge. The collision prompted a temporary suspension of traffic through the strait, which lasted from 2:03 p.m. until 3:06 p.m., causing delays for other vessels in the busy waterway. Following the incident, 'Wadi Al Karnak' was subsequently moored at the Zeytinburnu Anchorage after safely transiting the Bosphorus. However, the 'Forward' sustained more significant damage. Prior to the collision, the 'Forward' had encountered a rudder failure and was being assisted by a tug as it made its way northward through the strait towards the Beykoz area. The vessel was en route from Kerch to Bandirma, while the bulk carrier 'Wadi Al Karnak' was making its way from Novorossiysk to Alexandria. This incident highlights the ongoing challenges of maritime navigation in the Bosphorus, a vital passage for international shipping.