North-Star-1 Ship Details and Seafarer Feedback

Late on the night of March 3, 2026, a significant fire broke out aboard the 'North Star 1', a livestock carrier docked at the São Sebastião port on São Paulo's North Coast. The vessel, loaded with approximately 2,600 cattle bound for Turkey, fell victim to flames that ignited, reportedly on the third deck where hay, designated for the animals, was stored. Fire crews from various agencies including the Civil Defense, SAMU, and the municipal health network quickly responded to the emergency, working closely with the Fire Department. Although the crew initiated firefighting efforts, they were under-equipped and awaited the arrival of specialized teams to bolster their efforts. A total of 18 firefighters and six vehicles from the 11th Fire Brigade, along with support from the Maritime Fire Brigade and teams from Caraguatatuba and Ilhabela, mobilized to manage the situation. Compounding the challenge, a technical failure at the port's fire hydrant necessitated the use of water tanker trucks to maintain a steady water supply throughout the operation. Firefighting tugs were also deployed to assist in extinguishing the blaze. Meanwhile, a precautionary protocol for multiple victims was activated, and three mobile care units along with two intermediate support units were stationed on-site, with one advanced unit featuring a doctor. Following evaluations, 20 crew members were treated; four were referred to the Emergency Care Unit but were released shortly after, and one firefighter required attention for smoke inhalation. Fortunately, no severe cases were reported. The fire consumed around 300 tons of hay, while the cattle were safely kept in a lower compartment, isolated from the flames until it was deemed safe for their removal. Rescue teams, accompanied by Agricultural Surveillance, managed to evacuate the animals, which are now being transported to a farm associated with the Ministry of Agriculture in Barretos for necessary health checks. The circumstances leading to the fire are under investigation by relevant authorities and the Brazilian Navy. The local City Hall is continuing to oversee the situation until full normalization of port activities is achieved. By March 4 afternoon, the Fire Department concluded mopping-up operations, and at 12:45 p.m., inspections allowed for the release of the vessel. For detailed visual reports, you can follow these links: [G1 Brazil](https://g1.globo.com/sp/vale-do-paraiba-regiao/noticia/2026/03/04/fogo-em-navio-com-carga-de-gado-em-sao-sebastiao-tripulantes-recebem-alta-apos-inalar-fumaca.ghtml), [São Sebastião Official News](http://www.saosebastiao.sp.gov.br/noticia.asp?id=N432026165557), [G1 Brazil Report](https://g1.globo.com/google/amp/sp/vale-do-paraiba-regiao/noticia/2026/03/04/navio-que-pegou-fogo-em-sao-sebastiao-nao-teve-dano-estrutural-diz-relatorio-dos-bombeiros.ghtml).

On October 14, 2025, the vessel 'North Star 1' was apprehended in the port of Iskenderun, encountering a total of 16 noted deficiencies. Among these, five were classified as serious, raising significant safety concerns. The critical issues identified included: 1) Incomplete entries in the Oil Record Book, 2) Expired endorsement by the flag state, 3) Missing records of seafarers' daily hours of work or rest, 4) Non-operational lifeboats, and 5) An ISM (International Safety Management) certificate that did not meet the required standards. Following a period of inspection and rectifications, the 'North Star 1' was cleared for departure and set sail on October 19, heading towards Tripoli. The vessel successfully arrived there on October 30 and, as of November 5, remains stationary at its destination.

On April 30, the cattle carrier 'Express 1' was deftly pulled out of drydock by the tugboats 'Gruno' and 'Gruno II' at the Emder Dockyard. This significant event occurred while the vessel was moored in the industry port. For those interested in maritime photography, a Dutch photo report capturing this moment is available at http://www.tugspotters.com/site/content/2014/05/vandaag-in-emden-gezien/

The livestock carrier, 'Express 1', experienced a series of challenges during its recent voyage. Departing from Fowey on March 21, the vessel made its way to Falmouth Bay before setting course for Emden. By March 24, 'Express 1' successfully reached its destination of Emden, docking at the EWD - Emder Werft und Dockbetriebe shipyard on March 25 at 8:45 a.m. As the carrier navigates through its ongoing troubles, its return to the shipyard marks a crucial step in addressing the concerns surrounding its operations.

The livestock carrier 'Express 1' remains under detention in Fowey as critical improvements to the vessel have yet to be accomplished. The ship was towed into Fowey on February 3 following an engine failure off the coast of Lizard. An investigation prompted by authorities revealed alarming deficiencies in the living conditions for the crew, including the absence of hot water, heating, and adequate safety training. The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) has withheld the vessel's release while maintenance work is undertaken to rectify these safety issues. The MCA plans to conduct a re-inspection once the necessary repairs are finalized. The vessel’s detention stems from several safety concerns, particularly regarding the crew’s emergency training, the functionality of fire detection systems, and notable deficiencies within crew accommodations. The MCA firmly stated that substandard living conditions for crew members are unacceptable. In addition, both the MCA and Port Health Authorities have ensured that the situation poses no danger to safety, environmental integrity, crew health and welfare, or public health on land. For a detailed report with photos, visit: http://www.thisiscornwall.co.uk/7-000-tinee-ship-MV-Express-detained-Fowey/story-20705848-detail/story.html and to watch a relevant video, check: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q6pLtT_qJIA.