Discover the Tropic-Tide: Ratings & Maritime News

On May 15, 2021, at approximately 8:30 a.m., the vessel *Tropic Tide*, traveling from Georgetown, experienced an allision while attempting to dock at the Port of Paramaribo. The ship collided with the *HMBS Lawrence Major*, which was securely moored next to a floating dry-dock for maintenance at the Suriname Drydock and Shipbuilding Shipyard. The incident stemmed from a miscalculation concerning the river's tidal movements at a critical corner. The force of the impact caused the *Tropic Tide* to move forward, striking a nearby barge, which then impacted another nearby vessel in the Dr. Jules Sedney Haven area. Fortunately, crew members aboard the affected vessels and the shipyard workers present managed to evacuate safely prior to the collision, resulting in only minor injuries, primarily cuts and bruises. The ship's medic provided immediate medical evaluations to the crew. Damage assessments revealed that the *Tropic Tide* incurred significant harm to its starboard bow plating and remained stationary at the port as of May 17. The *HMBS Lawrence Major* also faced structural damage, particularly to its superstructure, including the portside upper deck railing, stairway, and bow region. A comprehensive damage assessment will be undertaken by Damen Shipyard Group. Local Suriname police, alongside marine authorities, are spearheading the investigation into the incident, working in collaboration with the owners and shipping agents of the *MV Tropic Tide*, representatives from Suriname Shipyard, Damen Shipyard Group, and the insurers for both vessels. For further details, a report with video coverage can be found at: https://www.waterkant.net/suriname/2021/05/15/video-aanvaring-vrachtschip-bij-sdsm-in-paramaribo/

St. John's, Antigua – The recent wave of industrial action at the port has led to a significant setback for local businesses, as the cargo vessel 'Tropic Tide' was compelled to leave the island without unloading its cargo. Frank Schwartz, the manager of Antigua Maritime Services, announced that the routine arrival of the Tropical Shipping Lines vessel was interrupted due to a strike initiated by the workforce. Workers from all sectors of the port participated in the walkout to protest the delayed payment of September salaries. Eyewitness accounts from the port revealed that the labor stoppage effectively halted operations at the primary seaport of Antigua. Schwartz warned of impending challenges for supermarket operators across the island, as their ability to replenish stock would be severely impacted. "This disruption will have lasting consequences, as supermarkets anticipated receiving their containers by noon on Monday. Instead, the vessel departed later that afternoon, still carrying essential goods meant for local distribution," he stated. The situation underscores the critical intersection between labor relations and supply chain logistics, especially in a region reliant on timely cargo deliveries.