Reviews & Ratings for the Yu-Zhou-Qi-Hang

In a notable collaboration, Scottish subsea technology firm Sulmara has lent its expertise to a critical fuel recovery operation concerning the vessel 'Yu Zhou Qi Hang'. This initiative was initiated at the behest of the Taiwanese government following the vessel's power loss off the coast of Taiwan on October 29 during the onslaught of Typhoon Kong-rey. Sulmara promptly deployed a WAM-V 16 uncrewed surface vehicle (USV) and a specialized team of survey professionals to assist in the complex task of recovering nearly 300 tons of onboard fuel oil. Additionally, Taiwanese marine contractor Dong Fang Offshore was engaged to employ the 'Orient Constructor', a capable salvage vessel designed to transport essential equipment and pumps. However, the operation encountered significant challenges due to the difficult weather conditions and the shallow waters surrounding the grounded ship. Maneuvering the 'Orient Constructor' close to the vessel was fraught with risk, compounded by limited knowledge of potential underwater hazards lurking beneath the hull. To counteract these challenges, Dong Fang Offshore partnered with Sulmara to conduct a meticulous seabed survey. The WAM-V 16 USV was outfitted with a multibeam echosounder (MBES) to effectively map the seabed and gather critical data. This data allowed for the independent verification of existing seabed information, providing the necessary assurance to proceed with the operation safely. The risk of additional debris entering the sea from the vessel underscored the importance of utilizing a USV for this mission. The setup included a towing line connected to the USV, acting as a precautionary backup. Remarkably, within just 48 hours of its deployment, the WAM-V 16 successfully completed its mission and was demobilized. This swift response enabled Dong Fang Offshore to finalize the salvage operations within a week of their arrival on site. The combined efforts ensured a safe and efficient recovery process, showcasing the effectiveness of innovative maritime solutions in crisis situations.

In a proactive response to a potential environmental disaster off the coast of Yeliu, New Taipei City, the 'Yu Zhou Qi Hang' was found carrying 250 tons of heavy oil, posing a significant threat to the local national park's ecosystem. Dongfang Wind Power quickly mobilized its resources to avert this ecological calamity. The engineering vessel 'Dongfang Builder,' equipped with cutting-edge dynamic positioning technology (DP2) and a robust 250-ton dynamic compensation crane, was dispatched to Keelung Port on November 8 to gear up for the crucial oil recovery operations. The operation faced considerable challenges due to the rocky nature of the grounding site and formidable waves reaching heights of four meters, making the situation especially precarious. To mitigate these risks, Dongfang Wind Power deployed three highly skilled surveying teams responsible for conducting an exhaustive seabed analysis, laying a crucial foundation for the ensuing recovery efforts. Despite the severe northeast monsoon's impact, which significantly restricted the operational window, the Dongfang Wind Power team persevered. Logistics personnel bravely scaled cliffs to install essential positioning equipment, while survey teams navigated small boats through tumultuous waters to ensure precise data collection. Utilizing advanced technologies in dynamic positioning and lifting, the crew aboard the 'Dongfang Builder' successfully executed delicate equipment lifts, enabling oil extraction activities to progress seamlessly. This exemplary operation highlights the commitment of Dongfang Wind Power to environmental protection and the safety of marine ecosystems.

Taiwan has firmly denied the accusations made by China on November 13, regarding the 'Yu Zhou Qi Hang's' alleged request for shelter at Keelung Port prior to the impact of Typhoon Kong-rey. The Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) of China claimed that the vessel's crew sought refuge before the storm; however, Taiwan’s Maritime and Port Bureau clarified that no such appeal was made. According to the bureau, the crew had opted to depart Keelung independently before the arrival of the typhoon. The 'Yu Zhou Qi Hang' is currently carrying over 290 tons of oil products, prompting significant concern over a potential oil spill that could affect the New Taipei coastline. Efforts to pump out the cargo have faced setbacks since November 2 due to inclement weather conditions. The Ministry of Transportation is planning to initiate another attempt on November 14, aiming to complete the operation within two weeks. With the necessary equipment already attached to the vessel, the situation may become more complex with the impending approach of Typhoon Usagi. The Central Weather Administration is anticipated to issue marine warnings for the storm early on November 14, and land warnings may follow later in the day.