Read Authentic Ratings for the Sofrana-Surville

In a concerning development, two crew members aboard the cargo ship 'Sofrana Surville' have tested positive for COVID-19, contributing to New Zealand's recent surge in community cases. This incident unfolded following the positive test of a New Zealand port worker linked to the vessel on October 17. In response, all 19 crew members underwent testing, and arrangements are now being made to transfer the two affected individuals to a shore-based hospital for further care. Currently, the ship is anchoring at coordinates 26° 40.60' S 153° 17.17' E, in quarantine near Mooloolaba. The 'Sofrana Surville' was en route from Noumea to Brisbane at the time the health alert was activated.

Concerns regarding a potential COVID-19 outbreak have resulted in the 'Sofrana Surville' being barred from docking in Brisbane. On October 21, 2020, the vessel, which had been scheduled to arrive in Queensland, anchored off the coast of Mooloolaba instead. The situation arose after an engineer onboard tested positive for the virus in New Zealand on October 17, with the belief that the infection occurred while he was working on the vessel near Auckland on October 12 and 13. In response, Queensland Health conducted tests on all 19 crew members on October 20. Additionally, serology testing is also planned for the crew. The ship had first entered Queensland waters on October 19, following its departure from Auckland on October 14, with a layover in Noumea on October 17. Fortunately, there have been no reports of illness among the crew thus far.

In an exciting development for maritime logistics, Sofrana has successfully secured a new charter agreement poised to enhance trading activities across Australia, New Zealand, and New Caledonia. The charter will be effective for a duration of 10 to 12 months, operating at a daily rate of $8,450. This strategic move underscores Sofrana's commitment to expanding its reach and optimizing its service offerings in key markets within the Pacific region. Stay tuned for more updates on this evolving story in the shipping industry.