Reviews & Ratings for the Good-Heart

In a recent ruling, Greek shipping company Eurobulk Ltd. has admitted guilt for violating the Act to Prevent Pollution from Ships (APPS) and for falsifying documentation to conceal their actions. This comes after inspections by the U.S. Coast Guard on April 29, 2023, in Corpus Christi revealed that the bulk carrier 'Good Heart' discharged oily bilge water directly into the ocean on multiple occasions. The chief engineer aboard the vessel allegedly instructed the crew to manipulate the oil-water separator by flushing it with fresh water, which misled the system into indicating compliance with oil content regulations. Further scrutiny revealed that the required entries in the Oil Record Book (ORB) regarding these discharges were not made, contravening both APPS and MARPOL regulations. As a result of the violations, Eurobulk Ltd. has been assessed a substantial criminal fine of $1.125 million and will undergo four years of probation under a stringent environmental compliance program. Additionally, the chief engineer has pleaded guilty to neglecting to update the ORB and has been fined $2,000 for his misconduct. This case highlights the heightened scrutiny of maritime operations and the importance of adhering to environmental regulations.