The Solana-S: Crew Feedback and Vessel Data

Yahata Kisen, a prominent Japanese shipping firm, has successfully finalized the sale of their handysize vessel, 'Gloria Island' (IMO: 1234567), built in 2012 in Japan. The ship, which recently underwent dry docking in July 2022, has been purchased by Greek shipowners Order Shipping for an impressive USD 10 million. This transaction marks a notable addition to the fleet of Order Shipping and highlights the continued demand in the secondhand vessel market.

In a recent beach clean-up at Leeuwin Naturaliste National Park, two bunker sample bottles were unearthed, prompting the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) to initiate an investigation in October. Just a week later, two additional bottles were discovered in the same area. All four bottles were intact, filled with fuel oil, and prominently labeled with the vessel's name, the collection date, and crew details. This information allowed AMSA to track down the 'Gloria Island,' which was on its way to Thevenard. AMSA personnel boarded the vessel to interview the master, chief engineer, and crew members. However, these discussions did not yield any satisfactory explanations for the bottles’ overboard departure. Upon reviewing the vessel’s bunker sampling protocols, AMSA determined that there was inadequate evidence to justify detaining the ship. Nevertheless, AMSA is considering issuing an improvement notice under the Navigation Act 2012, aimed at enhancing the safety management procedures aboard the vessel, particularly regarding bunker sampling practices.