Discover the Grand-Prosperity: Ratings & Maritime News

In a significant maritime transaction, a vessel has been sold for $3 million to buyers based in China. This sale highlights the ongoing demand and activity within the shipping industry, reflecting the growing influence of Chinese investors in the global maritime market. The details of the vessel, including its specifications and previous ownership history, have not been disclosed. However, this acquisition marks another chapter in the dynamic world of shipping transactions.

The U.S. Coast Guard has issued a $5,000 notice of violation to the freighter 'Ken Cape' following a serious oversight regarding hazardous conditions on board. During a recent port state control inspection at the Portland port, inspectors from Sector Columbia River's Marine Safety Unit uncovered a significant environmental issue: approximately 120,000 gallons of ballast water and heavy fuel oil had leaked into the cargo hold of the vessel. This leakage was attributed to a severely deteriorated fuel oil vent pipe. While the ship's crew discovered the leakage days earlier while at sea, they failed to report the hazardous condition to the Coast Guard, an omission that could incur fines up to $40,000. Coast Guard officials are presently coordinating with the vessel's flag state, crew, owner, and managing company to ensure the safe removal of the oil and necessary repairs before the 'Ken Cape' can proceed with loading its cargo. The vessel is scheduled to load grain at Kalama, Washington, for a voyage to Vietnam, contingent upon fulfilling port state control requirements. The 'Ken Cape' entered the Portland port on December 2, 2013.