The Wealthy-Star: Crew Feedback and Vessel Data

In a significant maritime development, the tanker 'Rich Starry' successfully navigated the Strait of Hormuz on the night of April 13, 2026, making its way to Sohar. During its transit, the vessel executed a loop maneuver close to the Iranian coastline. Both the 'Rich Starry' and its operator, Shanghai Xuanrun Shipping Co Ltd., are currently listed under U.S. sanctions for allegedly transporting sanctioned goods from Iran and Russia. The tanker had previously loaded 250,000 barrels of methanol in Hamriyah and has not docked in any Iranian port. However, on April 15, the ship was forced to retrace its route back to the Strait of Hormuz, hindered by a U.S. blockade. The vessel, which was known as 'Full Star' prior to its sanctions designation, was blacklisted by the U.S. in 2023 for its involvement in helping Tehran bypass energy sanctions. This transit marked the second attempt for the 'Rich Starry' to navigate the critical waterway after an initial attempt on April 13 coincided with the activation of the U.S. blockade, which led the ship to turn back shortly after setting sail. Subsequently, hours later, it resumed its course and appeared to head toward the eastern side of the Strait on April 14. Although the 'Rich Starry' claims to be operating under a Malawian flag, it's noteworthy that Malawi, being landlocked, does not maintain an official registry for ocean-going vessels. In response to the situation, the U.S. has positioned approximately 15 warships at the entrance to the Strait of Hormuz to enforce the blockade, which took effect on April 13 at 4 p.m. MEST against vessels that have docked or are en route to Iranian ports.