Ocean-Lion Ship Details and Seafarer Feedback

The cargo-laden vessel 'Ocean Lion' experienced a delay in its journey on August 11, 2023, due to inclement weather that hampered its progress. This situation occurs against the backdrop of a significant grain export agreement established by the United Nations and Turkey, which has facilitated the departure of 12 vessels from Ukrainian ports on the Black Sea since August 1. The 'Ocean Lion' had initially set sail from the port of Chronomorsk on August 7 and was later seen anchoring in the Sea of Marmara, near the southern approach of the Bosphorus Strait. Alongside, two other vessels, 'Sacura' and 'Mustafa Necati', were also anchored in proximity. Meanwhile, the 'Rahmi Yagci' was located at the northern part of the Bosphorus. On August 10, two cargo ships, 'Fulmar S' and 'Osprey S', arrived at Illichivsk to load grain after undergoing inspections by a Joint Coordination Center (JCC) team in Istanbul.

On August 9, 2022, the cargo vessel 'Ocean Lion' departed from Chornomorsk, Ukraine, navigating towards Incheon via Singapore. This journey marked a significant milestone as it was the twelfth ship to navigate the newly established humanitarian maritime corridor out of the Black Sea, facilitating critical grain shipments amid ongoing conflict. The 'Ocean Lion' transported a substantial 65,000 metric tonnes of feed-grade corn, purchased by Viterra on behalf of KFA Incheon prior to Russia's invasion. This vessel had faced delays due to Russia's naval blockade and Ukraine's defensive measures that included mining the waters. Another notable departure was the 'Rahmi Yagci,' which set sail from Chornomorsk carrying 5,300 metric tonnes of sunflower oil destined for Istanbul. Since August 1, more than 370,000 metric tonnes of agricultural products have successfully exited Ukraine. Looking ahead, the 'Bonita' is scheduled to leave Pivdennyi port en route to South Korea, currently being loaded with 66,000 metric tonnes of food-grade corn. However, concerns have arisen regarding the quality of the corn, which had been stranded for months without adequate ventilation, exposing it to heat and humidity. There is a risk that the shipment might face rejection upon arrival, particularly if aflatoxin levels exceed the permissible 20 ppb threshold required for feed production in South Korea. As the situation continues to evolve, the international community watches closely, hoping for a resolution that ensures safe and timely grain exports from Ukraine.

On October 11, 2019, the cargo vessel 'Ocean Lion' ran aground at kilometer marker 342 of the Paraná River, completely blocking the main navigation channel during its journey from San Lorenzo to Recalada at 1:10 AM. This incident prompted an immediate suspension of navigation in the area until further instructions could be issued. In response, the Coast Guard directed the ship's agents to engage tugs and appoint a salvage master to facilitate the refloating efforts. After a successful collaboration, the tugs 'Ranquel' and 'Diaguita' managed to dislodge the vessel at 11:35 PM. Following the refloating operation, the navigation channel was officially reopened for vessels on October 12 at 1:35 PM.