The Sea-Star-74: Crew Feedback and Vessel Data

On March 28, 2025, the cargo ship 'Sea Star 74' faced significant scrutiny after being detained in Tuapse due to a staggering 20 identified deficiencies. Among the most pressing issues were critical fire safety failures, including inoperative fire detection and alarm systems, and multiple violations concerning pollution prevention protocols, raising concerns about a suspected discharge violation. The comprehensive deficiencies noted were as follows: 1. **Fire Safety**: Inoperative fire detection and alarm systems. 2. **Living and Working Conditions**: Issues with mooring arrangements. 3. **Pollution Prevention**: Suspected discharge regulation violations. 4. **Pump and Piping Arrangements**: Non-compliance with required standards. 5. **Water/Weathertight Standards**: Ineffective scuppers, inlets, and discharge systems. 6. **Safety of Navigation**: Expired nautical publications. 7. **Navigation Records**: Not maintained as required. 8. **Bridge Operation**: Operational standards not met. 9. **Voyage Planning**: Inoperative passage planning protocols. 10. **Living and Working Conditions**: Cleanliness not up to code. 11. **Ropes and Wires**: Non-compliance with standards. 12. **Anchoring Devices**: Issues with operational standards. 13. **Fire Safety Equipment**: Fire pump and associated piping not up to specification. 14. **Operational Fire Doors**: Openings in fire-resisting divisions were not satisfactory. 15. **Fire Fighting Appliances**: Equipment not maintained to regulations. 16. **General Fire Safety Issues**: Additional unspecified deficiencies noted. 17. **Life Saving Appliances**: Lifeboats not adequately maintained. 18. **Oil Retention on Board**: Standards not met for retention. 19. **Remote Fire Control**: Systems inoperative. 20. **ISM Compliance**: Failure to meet ISM certificate requirements. Following the intervention, 'Sea Star 74' was officially released from detention on April 5, 2025, and has since remained anchored in the port of Tuapse, awaiting further inspections and compliance measures. This incident underscores the importance of rigorous safety protocols in maritime operations to ensure the integrity of both vessels and the marine environment.