The Star-Genesis: Crew Feedback and Vessel Data

A seafarer has tragically succumbed to COVID-19 aboard the bulk carrier Star Genesis (IMO: 9457464) while docked in Bulgaria, as reported by Bulgaria's Maritime.bg, citing local health authorities. The outbreak was first detected at the port of Burgas, where the vessel was anchored. The initial signs of illness in a crew member emerged on July 7, presenting symptoms such as fatigue, cough, and fever. This crew member was subsequently transported to UMBAL Burgas for assessment on July 14. Following a rapid antigen test, he tested positive for COVID-19 and was admitted to the hospital's infectious diseases unit. On July 15, health officials conducted tests on the remaining 19 crew members, revealing that 11 of them had also tested positive for the virus. As a precautionary measure, protocols were established to isolate the infected crew members on board for a period of 14 days, with daily health monitoring. Among the positive cases, three exhibited symptoms of fever and cough, although the rest reported no health complaints. In a tragic turn of events, the hospitalized crew member was transferred to the OAIL of UMBAL Burgas on July 18, but sadly passed away the next day. On July 19, another crew member began experiencing severe difficulty in breathing, prompting his hospitalization after an examination by the Burgas emergency medical service. In response to the outbreak, RHI Burgas has mandated that all areas on the vessel undergo thorough disinfection and has quarantined the crew. The Star Genesis, which has a total crew of 20 Filipinos, arrived in Burgas after its last port of call in the UAE on June 27, having transited through the Suez Canal on July 7-8. The vessel is slated to depart from Burgas on July 23. Local health authorities are actively monitoring the situation, enforcing strict measures to contain the spread of COVID-19 within the maritime environment.

In a devastating turn of events, a Filipino seafarer has succumbed to COVID-19 aboard the bulk carrier Star Genesis, registered under IMO number 9457464, while docked in Bulgaria. This incident, reported by Bulgaria's Maritime.bg, comes amidst a troubling outbreak on the vessel, which has confirmed 11 cases among its crew of 20 sailors. The affected crew members tested positive for the virus earlier, leading to heightened concerns regarding health and safety on board. As the maritime community grapples with the implications of this outbreak, the focus remains on safeguarding the welfare of all seafarers. For detailed reports in Bulgarian, visit Maritime.bg's coverage: https://www.maritime.bg/76546-2/ and https://www.maritime.bg/76539-2/

Star Bulk Carriers, a prominent player in the US shipping sector, has announced the acquisition of Songa Bulk, a shipping company based in Oslo, Norway. This strategic move adds an impressive fleet of 15 modern bulk carriers to Star Bulk's portfolio, which includes 3 Capesize bulkers, 10 Kamsarmax bulkers, 1 Ultramax bulker, and 1 Supramax bulker. To facilitate this expansion, Star Bulk will issue 13.7 million new shares and provide USD 145 million in cash for the fleet. Financing for the cash component will be supported by China Merchants Bank Leasing. In addition to this acquisition, Star Bulk has also entered into an agreement to procure 3 Newcastlemax bulkers currently under construction at Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding (SWS). These vessels are expected to be delivered in the fourth quarter of 2018 and the first quarter of 2019 from OceanBulk Container Carriers. To fund this purchase, Star Bulk will issue an additional 3.39 million new shares, with CSSC Shipping Company stepping in to provide USD 104.4 million for the newbuilds. This dual acquisition strategy signifies Star Bulk’s commitment to enhancing its fleet and staying competitive in the global shipping market.