The Samira: Crew Feedback and Vessel Data

In a startling incident on November 16 at 5:45 a.m., the cargo vessel 'Samira', anchored off the east coast of England while traveling from Amsterdam to Flixborough, unveiled the presence of two stowaways. The individuals, an Albanian man in his 40s and another in his 20s, emerged on the deck, prompting immediate action from the crew. The captain decided to provide the stowaways with food and warm clothing before requesting their return to the hold, assuring them that the ship would continue its journey up the Trent to reach its destination later that same evening. Upon discovering the stowaways, the captain swiftly notified the shipowner and relevant authorities. The shipowner activated the insurance company and involved the chartering office, with additional support sought from the shipowners' association, KVNR. The 'Samira' had already encountered delays, arriving in Flixborough late on November 12, and it was believed that the stowaways had remained in the vessel's hold for approximately four days. The situation evolved as security personnel boarded the ship, allowing the stowaways to swap their cramped conditions in the hold for an available cabin, though their passports were confiscated as a security measure. Despite initial discussions, negotiations with British authorities stalled, as they refused to accept the stowaways. The captain insisted that both individuals must disembark, highlighting the lack of necessary life-saving equipment for additional passengers on board. Complicating matters, a document from the British government mandates that stowaways should be allowed to disembark under circumstances like these. However, the authorities directed the 'Samira' back to sea with the stowaways and two security guards on board, requiring all parties to agree that the crossing was at their own risk. Ultimately, the situation concluded on November 21, when the 'Samira' returned safely to Amsterdam, allowing the stowaways to finally disembark. For further details and photographs related to this incident, please visit the report at Schuttevaer.