Working Conditions Aboard the Sand

On March 2, 2026, at 11:10 a.m., the Vietnamese Maritime Rescue Center sprang into action following an alarming report from Phuong Dong Petroleum Transport Co., Ltd., the owner of the 'Sand'. The vessel had successfully executed a daring rescue operation, recovering 21 crew members from the ill-fated tanker 'MKD Vyom' (IMO 9284386). Among those saved were one Ukrainian, four Bangladeshi, and 16 Indian nationals. This dramatic incident unfolded on March 1, 2026, when the 'MKD Vyom', which was making its way from Ijmuiden to Ras Tanura with 22 crew members onboard, was reportedly struck by a projectile in the engine room, approximately 44.4 nautical miles northwest of Muscat, Oman. The attack resulted in significant damage, fire within the engine room, and, tragically, the death of one crew member who was on duty at the time. Upon receiving the critical updates, the Vietnamese Maritime Authority directed the center to reach out to the 'Sand' and its owner. Confirmation revealed that the vessel and its crew were safe, and the rescued individuals were in stable condition. Coordination efforts ensued with the Omani MRCC, ensuring that the 'Sand's' crew maintained contact and adhered to necessary protocols with the Muscat Port Authority. The transfer of the 21 crew members was conducted in compliance with international maritime search and rescue guidelines at the Port of Muscat, where the 'Sand' received full support from the local Port Authority for entry procedures. By March 2, reports indicated that the fire aboard the 'MKD Vyom' had been controlled, and while the tanker remained afloat, arrangements were underway for its tow to a secure port. The tanker, fully laden, was operating in northern Oman's waters at the time of the attack. For further details, you may view the original report with accompanying photos at: https://www.vietnam.vn/de/kip-thoi-cuu-21-thuyen-vien-tau-mkd-vyom-bi-nan-tren-vung-bien-oman.

In a notable development in the maritime sector, Navig8 has successfully secured a new charter agreement priced at $20,000 per day for a duration of one year. This strategic move is expected to bolster Navig8's operational capabilities and enhance their fleet utilization in the competitive shipping market.

In a significant maritime transaction, a vessel has been sold for $23.7 million to the esteemed Greek shipping company, Latsco. This acquisition highlights the ongoing investment trends in the shipping industry and the strategic moves by Greek buyers to enhance their fleet.

On March 4 or 5, 2011, the tanker SAND 9379612 found itself under siege by pirates in the Arabian Sea, approximately 400 nautical miles off the coast of Porbandar, India. During the assault, a rocket-propelled grenade struck the vessel's superstructure, fortunately failing to detonate. Demonstrating remarkable evasion tactics, the tanker successfully avoided further conflict and continued its course towards Sikka port in Gujarat. Upon arrival, the crew sought expert help to safely neutralize the grenade. On March 6, a dedicated team from the Indian Coast Guard, accompanied by local police, boarded the ship and effectively disabled the RPG, ensuring the safety of everyone on board.