The Tavropos: Crew Feedback and Vessel Data

A vessel has been successfully sold to a Greek buyer for a substantial sum of $22.5 million. The transaction marks a significant moment in maritime trade, highlighting ongoing investment in the shipping industry. As interest from Greek buyers in maritime assets continues to grow, this sale exemplifies the commitment to strengthening their fleet and establishing a robust presence in global shipping markets.

On March 24, 2012, at 8:10 PM, a tense near-miss incident unfolded involving the Brixham trawler 'Amber' (IMO: BM224) and the oil tanker 'Moonlight Venture.' The encounter occurred approximately 24 nautical miles southwest of Start Point, raising serious safety concerns. The crew of five aboard the 'Amber' found themselves in immediate danger as the 'Moonlight Venture' allegedly disregarded multiple emergency communications from the trawler's skipper, prompting a necessary change of course to avoid a collision. The hefty tanker, laden with 35,711 tonnes of crude oil, was on its route from New Orleans to Rotterdam, with a scheduled stop at Falmouth on March 25. Despite the urgency of the situation and distress calls made on Channel 16, the 'Moonlight Venture' continued on its path, coming alarmingly close—within a quarter of a mile—of the fishing vessel. Local coastguards in Brixham have reported the incident to the Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) in Southampton, and a formal investigation is now underway to thoroughly assess the events leading to this precarious situation.