Discover the Golden-Zhejiang: Ratings & Maritime News

On January 16, 2026, the bulk carrier 'Golden Zhejiang' was detained in Constanta, Romania, by local authorities acting under the Paris Memorandum of Understanding. The detailed inspection spanned various critical areas including the accommodation and galley, engine room, navigation bridge, decks, forecastle, and ballast tanks, among others. As of January 19, 2026, the 'Golden Zhejiang' continues to remain docked in the port, pending further assessment and resolution of the issues that prompted its detention.

In a significant report released by the Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB), maritime safety experts have underscored the hazards associated with free-fall lifeboats on commercial vessels. This investigation stemmed from an alarming incident involving the bulk carrier, 'Golden Zhejiang,' which occurred on September 2, 2023. At that time, the vessel was anchored in the Trincomali Channel, British Columbia, awaiting its loading schedule. The investigation revealed that the crew was conducting routine safety checks when a malfunction arose during a steering test conducted from inside the lifeboat. Efforts to rectify this issue inadvertently triggered the main release mechanism, resulting in the lifeboat falling into the water with a crew member aboard. Tragically, this incident left one crew member with permanent, life-altering injuries and partial memory loss. Further examination indicated that the cables meant to secure the lifeboat to its launching system were neither engineered nor certified as load-bearing, making them unsuitable for their intended application. When the lifeboat was released inadvertently, these cables failed, leading to the dangerous drop into the water below. Adding to the concerning situation, investigators discovered a long-standing hydraulic leak which had prevented the crew from performing required lifeboat drills. This defect had been documented in monthly safety checks since June 2023 but was not raised in the planned maintenance log for timely repairs. The lifeboat itself, an essential component of the navigational and life-saving equipment on vessels, is situated at the stern of the ship, approximately 19 meters above the surface of the water, tilted at about a 30-degree angle toward the stern. With dimensions of 7.5 meters in length and a weight of 4,400 kilograms, this lifeboat is designed to accommodate up to 30 individuals. In light of the findings, the TSB is advocating for enhanced safety protocols to avert future occurrences. Columbia Shipmanagement, which oversees a fleet of over 400 vessels, has responded proactively by introducing a series of safety improvements. These measures include updated labelling for lifeboats, revised familiarization checklists, and the installation of securing turnbuckles to strengthen safety practices onboard.

In a significant development within the maritime industry, Golden Ocean Group Limited has announced its decision to sell the capesize vessel 'Golden Zhejiang' (IMO 9443619) to Knightsbridge Tankers Limited for a substantial sum of $65.5 million. This sale includes an existing four-year charter agreement, marking a strategic move for both companies involved. The completion of this transaction hinges on the successful financing and equity offering by Knightsbridge Tankers Limited, with expectations to finalize the deal in the fourth quarter of 2010. The proceeds from this sale will primarily serve to diminish debt associated with the asset. Additionally, a portion of $18.5 million will be allocated toward acquiring a number of restricted common shares in Knightsbridge. By investing further into Knightsbridge, the Board aims to foster a partnership that could lead to the development of new dry bulk business initiatives, focused on yield-driven investment strategies.