Working Conditions Aboard the Trapezitza

On November 27, 2024, the cargo vessel 'Trapezitza' collided with the 'Paola' (IMO: 5146689) while moored at Caraguay dock in Guayaquil. This incident resulted in considerable damage to the bow of the 'Paola' and severely impacted the supply routes to Isabela Island, located in the Galápagos Archipelago. At the time of the allision, the 'Paola' was preparing for loading operations. The 'Trapezitza', which was departing from a nearby terminal bound for Matarani, struck the stationary vessel. As a result, 600 tons of crucial supplies, including food, livestock feed, maintenance tools, eggs, vegetables, and frozen goods, were diverted to alternate vessels m/v 'Isabela' (Onuscargo) and m/v 'Vertom Thea' (Transnave). In response to this incident, local authorities, including the Governing Council of Galápagos and the Subsecretariat of Ports, are making necessary adjustments to maritime schedules to ensure timely delivery and avoid potential shortages in one of the archipelago's most isolated communities, Isabela Island.