Lita Vessel Reviews and Specifications

On August 22, 2019, at approximately 11 a.m., the bulk carrier 'Lita', traveling from St. Petersburg to Antwerp, experienced engine malfunctions while navigating the Wester Scheldt, just off the coast of Terneuzen. The vessel was forced to anchor at the Margaretha Way. In response to the situation, tugs from Multraship and Boluda (previously KotugSmit) were dispatched, including 'Multratug 6', 'Multratug 28', and 'Multrasalvor', but the ship's captain opted to decline their assistance. Additionally, the Rijkswaterstaat patrol vessel 'RWS 79' was present at the scene to monitor the situation. Fortunately, vessel traffic in the area continued to flow without disruptions. The crew aboard 'Lita' managed to troubleshoot and fix the engine complications independently, allowing the ship to resume its journey by 1:30 p.m. 'Lita' successfully docked at the Vrasen Dock later that day at 5:40 p.m. For further details, you can view related Dutch news reports with accompanying photos and videos at these links: [Omroep Zeeland](https://www.omroepzeeland.nl/media/55190/Stilgevallen-vrachtschip-op-de-Westerschelde-bij-Terneuzen), [PZC](https://www.pzc.nl/zeeuws-vlaanderen/machineproblemen-bulkcarrier-bij-terneuzen-opgelost~ae7fadf9/?referrer=https://www.google.com/), and [Transport Online](https://www.transport-online.nl/site/106379/vrachtschip-lita-in-de-problemen-op-westerschelde-foto/).

The vessel "Lita" has once again come under the microscope following a rigorous inspection by Belgian authorities, which led to its detention for nine days due to serious safety violations and unacceptable working conditions. The incident unfolded on July 1, 2019, at the Port of Ghent, spurred by a complaint lodged by a crew member regarding unsafe practices aboard the ship. During the inspection, Port State Control identified a staggering 36 deficiencies, many of which were classified as major safety breaches. Key issues uncovered included malfunctioning emergency lighting systems, defective batteries and switches, and life-saving devices that were rendered unusable. Additionally, inspectors noted improper maintenance of lifeboats, inadequate fire extinguishers, and insufficient training for the crew in fire safety procedures. The overall safety policies and protocols aboard the vessel were deemed inadequate, raising significant concerns for the welfare of the crew. Structural integrity was another area of concern, as inspectors observed numerous issues such as poor electrical maintenance, significant rusting, and damaged doors that posed safety risks. The vessel remained detained by Port State Control Belgium until all critical deficiencies were addressed, finally being cleared for release on July 9. The "Lita" has not only faced official inspections but has also been at the center of protests organized by ITF-affiliated dockers unions, ACV-Transcom and BTB. In a recent demonstration at the Port of Ghent, union members delivered fresh drinking water to the crew, who reportedly were forced to collect rainwater using tarpaulins during a period in May while the ship was stationed off the coast of Brazil. Despite these alarming issues, the Blumenthal company has continued to dismiss the concerns raised by the ITF.

On March 13, 2019, the vessel 'Lita' faced detention in St. Petersburg, mandated by the Ship Safety Center after officials identified a staggering 14 safety deficiencies onboard. Significant restrictions were placed on water usage, including limitations on washing machines, while the ship's central heating system was reported non-operational. Conditions aboard the 'Lita' were characterized as deplorable, prompting authorities to act due to the failure of critical fire doors, issues with radio communications, faulty electrical systems, and apparent gaps in navigational safety protocols. Additionally, the ship was found to have non-functional rescue boats and issues related to crew wages, alongside violations of environmental regulations. Following the necessary inspections and corrections, the 'Lita' was released on March 15 and departed at 10:40 p.m., setting its course for Manaus, with an estimated arrival date of April 6.