Discover the Xin-Hai-Tong-32: Ratings & Maritime News

The International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF) has flagged the MV XIN HAI TONG 32 (IMO: 9594573) for abandonment, raising concerns for the crew's welfare. Registered under the Marshall Islands flag, this vessel is currently docked at the port of Dar es Salaam in Tanzania, where 20 seafarers, primarily from China, have been left without pay for an alarming period of 7 months. This distressing situation was officially reported to the ITF on December 1, 2025, and remains unresolved as the case is still open. The ITF Seafarers abandonment list provides crucial oversight and assistance in such troubling maritime scenarios around the globe.

On January 23, 2020, the U.S. Coast Guard initiated a search operation for a missing crew member aboard the bulk carrier 'Star Aquila', located roughly 12 nautical miles south of Dauphin Island, Alabama. The Coast Guard Sector Mobile was alerted to the situation at 4:07 a.m. after crew members reported that a 41-year-old male had gone missing. He was last seen on January 22 at approximately 5:30 p.m. Initial searches conducted by the crew onboard the vessel yielded no results. The 'Star Aquila' had been anchored in the area for the past eight days and was scheduled to move into Mobile on January 24. Assets involved in the search included a 45-foot boat from Coast Guard Station Dauphin Island, an MH-65 Dolphin helicopter from Air Station New Orleans, and the team aboard the 'Star Aquila'.

In a significant transaction within the maritime industry, Greek shipping powerhouse Star Bulk Carriers has successfully completed the acquisition of a fleet for an impressive $139 million. The deal, structured as a combination of cash and shares, marks a notable expansion for the company. This strategic investment underscores Star Bulk's commitment to enhancing its operations and positioning in the global shipping market.

Jiangsu Hantong Ship Heavy Industry has successfully delivered the bulk carrier Aquila, a state-of-the-art vessel promising substantial fuel savings of up to 14%. This 57,000 dwt ship has been handed over to Delphin and incorporates innovative technology including the Mewis Duct, which significantly enhances propulsion. This device optimizes the water flow towards the propeller, leading to improved overall efficiency and reduced power consumption. Historically, a bulk carrier operating at a speed of 14 knots could consume around 29.4 metric tonnes of bunker fuel. However, with the Mewis Duct installed, Aquila is set to lower its fuel usage to just 26 metric tonnes while maintaining the same speed, marking a significant stride towards sustainability in maritime operations.