Working Conditions Aboard the Happy-Leader

On November 3, 2017, the cargo vessel 'Blessing W' successfully docked in Liepaja at 11:45 AM following a distressing episode of engine failure in the Bømla Fjord, just south of Mosterhamn. The incident occurred on October 30, shortly after the ship had departed from Dakar on October 15. While drifting perilously close to the shore, only 300 meters away, the NSSR lifeboat 'Bergen Kreds' swiftly responded to the emergency. Approximately 30 minutes after the initial engine failure, the Norwegian cargo vessel 'Eva Elisabeth' (MMSI: 257861700), which was traveling from Leirvik in Hyllestad to Karmsund, reached the scene. The crew aboard 'Eva Elisabeth' took necessary precautions to stabilize the drifting 'Blessing W' by holding it in position. Subsequently, the crew deployed the bulk carrier's anchor, effectively halting its drift in the calm waters until they could successfully restart the engine. This incident highlights the importance of swift maritime rescue operations and coordinated efforts between vessels in distress. For more details, refer to the Norwegian report with accompanying images: http://www.bomlo-nytt.no/nyhende/dramatisk-da-lastebat-fekk-motorstopp-i-bomlafjorden-1.2184990.

On February 13, 2012, the cargo vessel 'Fourseas SW' became the target of a violent pirate assault approximately 110 nautical miles from Lagos, Nigeria. During the harrowing incident, the crew members sought refuge in a secured compartment while a fierce gun battle erupted. Tragically, the captain and chief engineer sustained fatal injuries as the assailants unleashed a barrage of gunfire upon the ship. This incident highlights the ongoing threats facing maritime operations in vulnerable regions.