Crew Reviews, Ratings & Info for Meerkatze

On December 14, 2023, the rescue vessel 'Meerkatze' took on the critical role of On-Scene Commander (OSC) in a desperate search for a missing fisherman in the North Sea near Heligoland. The incident occurred early on December 13, 2023, when one crew member from the trawler 'Amadeus-TH 7' (MMSI: 235001620) fell overboard. The Norwegian coast was faced with challenging conditions, including easterly winds reaching nine Beaufort and turbulent seas of four to five meters in height, alongside a water temperature of ten degrees Celsius. Upon receiving the distress signal around 12:20 a.m., the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) in Bremen mobilized a significant search operation, calling on merchant vessels, a research ship, a cruise liner, and several lifeboats including the 'Hermann Rudolf Meyer', 'Ernst Meier-Hedde', 'Theo Fischer', and 'Pidder Lüng'. Initially coordinating with a vehicle carrier, the MRCC organized air support from a German 'Sea Lion' SAR helicopter and a Danish SAR helicopter from Skrydstrup. As the grueling night search continued, the four DGzRS lifeboats were eventually replaced by the 'Meerkatze' and other vessels, including the emergency tug 'Nordic' and additional fishing and merchant ships, at daybreak. Following exhaustive efforts through the night, the MRCC made the difficult decision to suspend the search shortly after 2 p.m., while the trawler 'Amadeus' made its way to Eemshaven.

The stunning coast guard vessel 'Meerkatze' (IMO 9421245) made a remarkable appearance at Hamburg’s 821st Port Anniversary. This event showcased the rich maritime heritage of the city, and the presence of the Meerkatze added a touch of maritime pride. Interested viewers can check out a collection of photos capturing its departure parade at the following link: http://www.vesseltracker.com/de/ShipPhotos/519091-Meerkatze-9421245.html.