Working Conditions Aboard the Helios

The 'Helios' has officially resumed operations following the completion of extensive repair work at the Tandanor shipyard. This major overhaul was necessary after the vessel was involved in an allision on May 4, 2026, at the Port of Campana. At approximately 17:36 on that day, the chemical tanker 'Ginga Bobcat' collided with the starboard stern of the 'Helios', which was docked and engaged in fuel operations at the time. The 'Ginga Bobcat' was navigating upstream on the Paraná-Paraguay Waterway, transporting around 10,300 tons of sulfuric acid intended for the Greater Rosario industrial complex. Fortunately, there were no casualties, spills, or pollution resulting from the incident, although the nature of the cargo warranted immediate inspection of both vessels' hulls and systems. Navigation data indicated that the 'Ginga Bobcat' was travelling at about 8.6 knots before the collision, but the precise reasons for the maneuver have not been disclosed. The damage inflicted on the 'Helios' necessitated its placement in dry dock for comprehensive repairs. The work conducted involved significant structural, mechanical, and system-related fixes, requiring collaboration among various technical departments at the shipyard. One of the primary challenges was to replace AH-32 grade marine steel plating and other structural components that were compromised during the allision. The repair scope also encompassed reinforcing supports and mounting bases, renewing deck elements, and addressing issues in the purifier room along with other impacted areas. Additionally, shipyard experts undertook the disassembly, inspection, and reassembly of the propeller, evaluated the shaft line, checked the steering system, and examined mechanical components linked to the vessel's propulsion. The repair program further included the replacement of piping for multiple service systems, extensive hull treatment using hydro-jetting, and the application of new color schemes. Maintenance on the anchor chain and thorough non-destructive testing and quality inspections were carried out to ensure the integrity of all repairs before the 'Helios' was cleared to return to service. Restoring the vessel was a complex task given the severity of the damage to its quarter, requiring substantial efforts to re-establish both structural integrity and effective functioning of its propulsion and auxiliary systems. Now that the repairs are complete and all inspections have been successfully concluded, the 'Helios' is back in operation, ready to take on its next assignments.

On the afternoon of May 4, 2026, at precisely 5:36 p.m., a maritime incident unfolded in Campana, Argentina, involving a significant allision between two tankers. The vessel 'Ginga Bobcat' (IMO: 9472737), which was navigating upstream from Montevideo, collided with the moored 'Helios' while in the Paraná-Paraguay Waterway. The impact prompted an immediate activation of safety protocols by the Argentine Naval Prefecture. At the time of the collision, the 'Ginga Bobcat' was transporting a substantial cargo of 10,300 tons of sulfuric acid intended for the TFA terminal located in Greater Rosario. Reports indicate that the 'Ginga Bobcat' was traveling at a speed of around 8.6 knots when it struck the starboard stern of the 'Helios', which was engaged in loading gasoline and diesel. Following the incident, the 'Ginga Bobcat' dropped anchor at position S 34° 09' N 058° 58' W. Preliminary assessments revealed breaches and severe damage above the waterline to both vessels, specifically to the port side bow of the 'Ginga Bobcat' and the stern of the 'Helios'. Authorities are currently evaluating the structural integrity of both ships to ensure there were no leaks resulting from the collision. Fortunately, there have been no reported casualties or serious injuries. To mitigate potential environmental hazards in the river, Coast Guard personnel are maintaining strict surveillance of the area. For further updates and video footage, visit: https://www.facebook.com/madariagaproducciones/posts/campanario-paranaeste-lunes-4-de-mayo-de-2026-por-la-tarde-se-registr%C3%B3-un-grave-/1431780275630694/

On February 4, 2017, a life-saving operation unfolded off the stunning Algarve coast as the Portuguese Air Force sprang into action to medevac a crew member from the vessel 'Sloman Helios'. Approximately 40 kilometers offshore, a formidable EH-101 Merlin helicopter from the 751 Squadron was deployed to the scene. In a highly skilled maneuver, the crew member was swiftly hoisted from the ship and airlifted to a hospital in Lisbon for urgent medical attention. Remarkably, the helicopter completed the mission in just three hours before returning to its air base. The 'Sloman Helios' continued its journey and arrived safely in Sines on February 6. For a closer look at this remarkable rescue operation, check out the video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6S20GweINhk.