The Potomac-Express: Crew Feedback and Vessel Data

The American Waterways Operators (AWO) has proudly bestowed its esteemed Honor & Excellence in Rescue Operations (HERO) Awards upon the courageous crews of the 'Potomac Express' and the 'El Coqui'. These dedicated mariners were celebrated for their remarkable commitment to safeguarding lives at sea. The crew of the 'El Coqui', under the expert guidance of Captain Kurt Breitfeller, was instrumental in rescuing four individuals who had to evacuate their sailboat after it sustained damage in the treacherous waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Collaborating seamlessly with the U.S. Coast Guard and the fishing vessel 'Bonanza', they effectively located, retrieved, and ensured the safe transport of the four sailors. In a separate incident, Second Mate Kevin Zapolski, aboard the 'Potomac Express', exhibited exceptional valor when he responded to an urgent distress call after a crew member fell overboard between the dock and the vessel. Zapolski efficiently deployed a life ring, coordinated vital support with his crew, terminal staff, and emergency responders, ultimately rescuing the stranded mariner. These awards highlight the critical actions of individuals who consistently strive to prevent harm and protect lives within the maritime community. For more details and images, visit: https://www.ajot.com/news/crowley-mariners-honored-for-heroic-rescues-by-american-waterways-operators

The container ship 'Mayssan', along with Hapag-Lloyd's assets at the Port of Beirut, has been detained as a precautionary measure. This includes all empty containers located in the port’s yard, pending a bank guarantee of $12.6 million from the asset owners to the Court of Beirut. This legal action comes after the judge permitted the discharge of containers destined for Beirut on March 2, 2018. Currently, the vessel remains idle in Beirut's roads. The ship entered the port on February 28 to unload 500 TEUs and load 365 TEUs. Following the merger of United Arab Shipping Company (UASC) with Hapag-Lloyd, the latter unexpectedly terminated the agency contract with UASC's representative, AKAK Marine, without reaching a compromise. Consequently, AKAK Marine sought legal recourse, securing a court order to arrest the ship in an effort to recover the outstanding payment of $13.6 million owed by the vessel's owners.

The UASC-operated container vessel MAYSSAN faced a challenging situation in the Strait of Hormuz late at night on August 21, 2023. At approximately 2300 UTC, the ship lost control while navigating southward towards its destination of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, having departed from Jebel Ali in the United Arab Emirates. The container ship became disabled and drifted aimlessly for more than four hours. Fortunately, MAYSSAN regained its capability to sail at around 0430 UTC on August 22, though it continued its journey at a reduced speed to ensure safety.