Working Conditions Aboard the Hermes

On October 30, 2016, the cargo vessel 'United Ocean' experienced a fire in its engine room while navigating the Mediterranean Sea, approximately 100 miles northeast of Misrata. The ship was making its way from Misrata to Algeria when it became disabled and drifted, prompting a distress signal to be sent at 8 a.m. In response, the Italian Navy dispatched the patrol vessel 'Mimbelli' to provide assistance. Additionally, the Norwegian offshore vessel 'Siem Pilot,' actively involved in FRONTEX operations, arrived to help and successfully towed the 'United Ocean' to safety, securing it off the coast of Valletta on November 3 at 3:30 a.m. Thankfully, all 12 crew members aboard were reported safe, with no injuries sustained during the incident.

After an extensive five-month period docked in Shoreham Harbour, the bulk carrier United Ocean has finally resumed its voyage. Originally detained by Port State Control in November due to several safety issues, the ship underwent necessary repairs and received clearance to depart on March 14. The vessel made its way out of the harbour just five days later, marking the end of its prolonged stay. The berth previously occupied by United Ocean is set to welcome a new ship soon, ensuring the flow of import and export activities continues throughout Sussex via Shoreham Port. Julian Seaman, the harbour master and director of marine operations at Shoreham Port, expressed his satisfaction, stating: "Shoreham Port is pleased that the vessel has been released and has now sailed." For further details, visit Shoreham Herald.