Read Authentic Ratings for the Grebe-Bulker

On January 21, 2025, the cargo ship 'Greve Bulker' found itself detained at the port of Rizhao due to a total of 12 reported deficiencies, with three categorized as serious enough to warrant the detention. The concerning findings included a malfunctioning fixed fire extinguishing system, non-compliant fire pump and piping, and poorly maintained lifeboats, all of which raised significant safety alarms. After addressing these issues, the vessel received clearance and departed for Nanting on January 23, 2025.

Eagle Bulk Shipping Inc. joyfully announced on May 22 that three crew members kidnapped from the 'Grebe Bulker' in the Port of Owendo, Gabon, on May 2 have been safely released. The seafarers are currently undergoing medical evaluations and are expected to be repatriated soon to reunite with their families. Since the kidnapping, Eagle Bulk has engaged closely with local authorities and industry professionals to navigate the situation. The company, however, has chosen not to disclose the terms surrounding the crew's release. It is important to note that it is common in such cases for kidnappers to demand a ransom from shipowners for the safe return of their crew.

In a distressing incident off the coast of Gabon, three crew members from the bulk carrier 'Grebe Bulker' were kidnapped while the vessel was anchored approximately 4.7 nautical miles from Owendo. The abduction, which involved the captain, second mate, and third mate, occurred during the early hours of May 1, 2023, around 12:30 a.m. UTC. Thankfully, the other 17 crew members on board remained safe and unharmed. Eagle Bulk Ship Management, the US-based owner of the ship, confirmed that 'Grebe Bulker' had arrived from Port Harcourt on April 30, 2023, and was awaiting further loading instructions. Upon realizing that crew members were missing, an immediate search of the vessel was conducted, and local port authorities were promptly notified of the situation. Following the incident, security measures were heightened, with local authorities mobilizing to the scene. The Gabonese river patrol boat, 'Omboue,' responded and reached the vessel roughly 2.5 hours after the incident, by 4:10 a.m. UTC. Fortunately, there were no reports of damage to the ship or its cargo. Eagle Bulk reiterated that the safety and welfare of its crew members is their foremost concern as they navigate this troubling situation.