Working Conditions Aboard the Free-State

In the early hours of August 25, 2019, at 2:10 a.m. local time, a maritime incident occurred in the Dardanelles Strait involving the bulk carrier 'ESL Dolphin' and the vessel 'Free State.' The collision took place between the Gallipoli peninsula and the Bosphorus exit, resulting in only minor damages to both ships. Emergency response was swift, with tugs 'Kurtarma 6' and 'Kurtarma 10' dispatched alongside the lifeboat 'Kiyem 9' to provide assistance. The 'Free State' was on a course from King Abdullah Port in Saudi Arabia to Burgas, while the 'ESL Dolphin' was ballasting from Eren, Turkey, to Gibraltar. Following the incident, both vessels anchored at Sevketiye for safety assessments and investigations. The 'ESL Dolphin' was cleared to continue its journey and set sail for Gibraltar on August 26, with an estimated arrival date of September 3. Meanwhile, the 'Free State' resumed its transit shortly after and successfully anchored off Burgas on August 28 at 1 a.m. By August 29, it remained moored near Burgas at coordinates 42° 29.63' N and 027° 32.19' E, before remaining in port from September 3 to 9 before finally departing for Rotterdam.

In a noteworthy transaction, a vessel has been successfully sold for an impressive $14.15 million to buyers from Greece. This sale highlights the continuing activity in the maritime market, showcasing the Greek interest in expanding their fleet as they navigate the intricacies of global shipping.