Morning-Sun Ship Details and Seafarer Feedback

Curaçao has taken decisive action against maritime violations by detaining the tanker 'Regina' (IMO: 9230098), which in January discharged Venezuelan oil at Bullen Bay. This was officially reported by the Curaçao Maritime Authority. The 'Regina' was found to be operating under a false flag and had intentionally disabled its AIS transponder, raising red flags due to its inclusion on US sanctions lists for several years. In addition to the 'Regina', authorities have also detained another tanker, the 'Morning Sun', which was anchored off the coast of Sint Eustatius at position 17° 29' N 063° 01' W. The Dutch authorities have intervened given that Sint Eustatius is classified as a special municipality of the Netherlands, rather than an autonomous entity of the Kingdom, akin to Curaçao. The saga began when the 'Regina' was received on January 15 by Prime Minister Gilmar Pisas at the Bullen Bay oil terminal, which had been inactive for many years. However, a subsequent inspection conducted a day later revealed critical safety issues, including insufficient conditions in the ship's lifeboats and onboard hospital. This prompted concerns regarding the vessel's nationality, leading Curaçaoan authorities to involve the Netherlands. The Human Environment and Transport Inspectorate confirmed its regulatory oversight under the Ships Act, a national law applicable even to autonomous regions like Curaçao. The situation escalated when the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands revealed it was only informed about the 'Regina's' violations, including the false flag, on January 21, following inquiries from the press. Remarkably, after its initial oil discharge in mid-January, the tanker was allowed to return to Venezuela without incident. However, upon its re-docking in Bullen Bay on January 28, Curaçao authorities acted swiftly. Official detention of the 'Regina' occurred on January 29 due to the false flag status and serious safety infractions. Investigations are ongoing to determine potential criminal liability and identify suspects involved. Furthermore, the joint Caribbean port authority announced that the 'Morning Sun' has also been detained, with the Human Environment and Transport Inspectorate discovering numerous safety violations preventing the vessel from navigating securely.