Nw-Aidara Ship Details and Seafarer Feedback

**Title: Brazilian Navy Successfully Rescues Adrift Tanker NW Aidara After Two-Month Ordeal** In an incredible display of maritime rescue operations, the tanker NW Aidara, which had been floating aimlessly for nearly two months, was successfully salvaged by the Brazilian Navy on March 27. The ship was brought into the safe confines of the Port of Fortaleza, Ceará, after enduring a harrowing experience at sea since February 5. The vessel, carrying a crew of 11, lost control due to a significant failure in its hydraulic system, caused by a ruptured hydraulic hose that led to a damaging oil leak and a malfunction of the rudder gear. Although the Brazilian Navy was notified of the emergency on February 25, the NW Aidara was initially outside Brazilian waters, under the jurisdiction of Dakar. The ship continued adrift until it finally drifted into Brazil's maritime zone, prompting the Brazilian Search and Rescue Service, also known as Salvamar Northeast, to activate search operations approximately 675 nautical miles off the coast. The Navy effectively monitored nearby vessels to coordinate the rescue and initiated communication with the NW Aidara to ensure the crew's safety, providing essential supplies and water during the ordeal. Complications included a lack of satellite communication or high-frequency radio gear, leaving the crew dependent on VHF for contact. On March 1, the merchant ship YK Newport successfully communicated with the NW Aidara and offered telemedical support to assess the crew's health. Reports indicated that all crew members were in satisfactory condition, with the captain trying to fabricate a new drive gear on board by March 8, after which they would request assistance if necessary. On March 9, the patrol vessel Araguari was dispatched to the NW Aidara to ensure crew safety and deliver supplies as needed. Simultaneously, the Corvette Caboclo set sail from Salvador, arriving in Fortaleza to assist with the operation. The final phase of the rescue was fulfilled by the High Seas Tugboat Triunfo, which towed the damaged tanker safely back to the Port of Fortaleza days later. This successful rescue operation not only underscores the commitment of the Brazilian Navy to maritime safety but also highlights the importance of effective communication and rapid response in emergency situations at sea. For further details and to view accompanying photos, visit: https://g1.globo.com/rn/rio-grande-do-norte/noticia/2026/03/30/navio-deriva-resgate-marinha.ghtml

The 'NW Aidara', which had sailed from Dakar on Jan 13, 2029, has been adrift for 23 days and was NUC in pos. 10°20' N 028°40' W with11 people on board as of Feb 18. Only two days of food were remaining. Medical assistance was requested with panic attacks reported. Assistance required was towing, food and medical support. All ships in vicinity able to assist were requested to proceed to position. At 11.50 a.m. a tanker appeared to be on site.