The Noina: Crew Feedback and Vessel Data

In a significant maritime incident on March 30, 2026, the cargo vessel 'Noina', operated by ACBL of Venezuela and recently taken over by Jindal Steel Power, ran aground in the Orinoco River, specifically at position 08° 25' N 062° 38' W, near mile marker 169. The grounding, occurring around midnight, was attributed to an overloading of iron ore cargo. This unfortunate event completely blocked the navigation channel at the Aramaya sector, particularly affecting the San Roque area. Despite adhering to the official draft limits set by local authorities, the vessel departed from CVG Ferrominera Orinoco docks in Puerto Ordaz shortly before midnight, carrying an iron ore load that exceeded the river's navigational depth. This excess caused the 'Noina' to run aground at approximately mile 169.5. Efforts to tow the distressed vessel have involved four tugs, including 'Auyantepui', 'Ana C', 'Marqués de Carabas', as well as assistance from a unit of the National Institute of Aquatic Spaces (INEA). Unfortunately, all towing attempts have failed due to the heavy weight of the cargo preventing the vessel from floating high enough for towing to shallower waters. In response to the grounding, Captain Gustavo Dionisio García González, the Port Captain of Ciudad Guayana, issued an official communication (INEA 00277) to restrict navigation for vessels weighing more than 500 gross tons. For further details and images, visit the report at https://correodelcaroni.com/region/sucesos/colapso-en-el-orinoco-buque-con-mineral-de-hierro-bloquea-canal-de-navegacion-del-rio-debido-a-sobrecarga/

On June 27, 2024, the bulk carrier 'Seajoy', while navigating from Rizhao to Durban, was struck by a waterborne improvised explosive device in the Red Sea. This incident occurred approximately 80 nautical miles southwest of Hodeidah. Fortunately, all crew members were unharmed, and the vessel was able to proceed to its next designated port without significant delay. As of now, the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) has not reported any damage to the ship. The Houthi militia has claimed responsibility for the assault, alleging that the vessel was targeted with missiles, drones, and surface drones due to its purported past stop at an Israeli port. However, maritime records do not validate any calls to Israel by the 'Seajoy' in the last year, raising questions about the legitimacy of the claims made by the Houthi forces.

The bulk carrier 'Seajoy' has been officially cleared from quarantine at Santos anchorage, after being under isolation since June 23, 2020. Initially, the vessel loaded 63,500 tons of soybeans, but shortly after departure, two crew members tested positive for the COVID-19 virus, prompting immediate safety protocols. The affected crew members were isolated on board while the ship underwent a thorough medical review. Following this precautionary measure and subsequent health checks, 'Seajoy' has now resumed its journey, setting sail towards Iran.