Read Authentic Ratings for the S-Samba

In a strategic move to optimize its fleet, Scorpio Bulkers Inc. has revealed a new financing arrangement regarding one of its Kamsarmax vessels. The company has agreed to sell the SBI Samba, a Japanese-built dry bulk vessel from 2015, to an unaffiliated third party for a total of $21.4 million. Following this sale, Scorpio Bulkers will enter into a leaseback agreement for the vessel, ensuring continued operational capabilities. This transaction showcases Scorpio Bulkers' ongoing commitment to enhancing its financial position and overall fleet management.

A tragic incident unfolded off the coast of Queensland when a crew member aboard the 'SBI Samba' went missing and is now presumed dead. The alarming disappearance of the 47-year-old Filipino man prompted the crew to sound the alarm on January 12, 2017, at around 6 PM, approximately five hours after he was last seen. The ship, which was on its route, had drifted more than 100 kilometers from the last known location between Innisfail and Lucinda by the time the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) initiated a comprehensive air and sea search. Rescue efforts included helicopters and personnel from the Townsville Water Police, who combed the area as daylight faded. By January 13, the search expanded to cover 800 square nautical miles with the assistance of AMSA's search and rescue aircraft, in addition to six other fixed-wing planes and the previously deployed rescue helicopter. A total of eight aircraft and five vessels participated in these extensive search operations. Meanwhile, the 'SBI Samba' continued its journey southward toward Hay Point, close to Mackay. As night fell on January 13, experts speculated that, should he have entered the water, the missing crew member likely succumbed to the environment. Upon the vessel's arrival at Hay Point that evening, Queensland Police officers boarded the ship to conduct an investigation. While the authorities refrained from disclosing specifics about the toxic substance the missing man may have ingested, they confirmed that his death is not being treated as suspicious. Queensland Police are in charge of the investigation and will prepare a report for the coroner. The ship's owners, Scorpio Bulkers, have been in contact with the Australian Federal Police and AMSA regarding the incident and are leaving the investigation to the AFP, as it's classified as a missing person case. As the search efforts conclude, the maritime community mourns the loss and awaits further developments.