Zoe-Schulte Vessel Reviews and Specifications

In late March 2019, two companies initiated lawsuits in federal courts in Texas, claiming that their vessels sustained damage from contaminated bunker fuel supplied by Valero Energy Company's subsidiary, Valero Marketing and Supply Co. Court records reveal that the National Shipping Company of Saudi Arabia incurred over $1.1 million in expenses for repairs and fuel replacement after one of their ships drifted at sea for 48 hours before finally reaching Alexandria for necessary fixes in early May 2018. The problematic fuel inflicted serious damage to the vessel, affecting crucial components such as the fuel injection pumps (including both plunger and barrel), injection control units, pistons, and valves. Furthermore, Indelpro S.A., a Mexican petrochemical enterprise, indicated that Valero Marketing and Supply was aware of the fuel issues impacting more than 150 ships from January 1 to May 31, 2018. They reported that the 'Zoe Schulte', a chartered vessel, also suffered damages due to the faulty bunker fuel in May 2018, necessitating extensive engine repairs, as well as cleaning of its fuel tank and pipes. Both companies outlined that they were provided with certificates verifying that the delivered fuel met all specifications. Although Indelpro has not specified the financial impact incurred, they are pursuing damages exceeding $75,000. Meanwhile, the Saudi company is looking to reclaim costs already incurred, alongside legal fees, interests, and additional compensation to be determined by the court. Notably, Valero ranks as the second-largest refiner in the United States. Indelpro's lawsuit against Valero Marketing and Supply Co was lodged in the Galveston division of the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas, while the National Shipping Company of Saudi Arabia's claim was filed in the Houston division of the same district court.