Viet-Thuan-80-03 Ship Details and Seafarer Feedback

The Istanbul Regional Port Authority under the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure has unveiled plans for the long-awaited restoration of the historical Hekimbaşı Salih Efendi Mansion, following an unfortunate incident almost five years ago. On April 7, 2018, the vessel 'Vitaspirit', operating at the time under the name 'Viat Thuan 80-03', collided with the mansion's wall, inflicting substantial damage. In a letter published on December 31, 2024, the authority disclosed that repair efforts will commence between January 10 and May 25, 2025. Aras Deniz İnşaat A.Ş. has been entrusted with the marine aspect of the restoration. To facilitate these works, various marine vessels will be employed, including the floating crane 'Koca Seyit', the tugboat 'Gülsün Ana', and the service ship 'Albatros 3'. The restoration plan has received official approval from the Istanbul Regional Port Authority, ensuring compliance with all required specifications. During the restoration process, stringent safety and environmental precautions will be adhered to. For instance, all navigational safeguards will be implemented to protect life, property, and the surrounding environment. Operations will only occur during daylight hours and under suitable weather conditions. Additionally, only vessels carrying valid national and international documentation will be permitted to engage in the project, and no harmful substances will be utilized to prevent marine pollution. If diving activities are necessary, a specific diving permit must be obtained from the Istanbul Regional Port Authority. Upon the completion of restoration activities, a detailed report must be submitted to the authority, confirming the restoration's successful execution. Throughout the process, strict adherence to guidelines from the General Directorate of Coastal Safety and other relevant authorized institutions will be mandatory. The responsibility for overseeing these extensive repair works lies with officials from Aras Deniz İnşaat A.Ş. This restoration marks a significant step forward in preserving Istanbul's historical architecture and addressing the aftermath of maritime incidents.

On June 2, 2018, the vessel 'Vitaspirit' was transferred from Istanbul anchorage to Tuzla anchorage with the assistance of a Coastal Safety tug. The ship successfully dropped anchor at Tuzla at 3 p.m. Despite its relocation, the 'Vitaspirit' remained in a state of limbo as the port captain had yet to issue departure permission, citing incomplete legal procedures. The vessel had been stationary and under arrest at Tuzla anchorage ever since. Previously, on April 7, the 'Vitaspirit' had experienced engine failure, leading to it running aground near the historic Hekimbasi Salih Efendi mansion at Beylerbeyi Point in the Istanbul Strait. After being refloated and towed to Istanbul anchorage for temporary repairs, the ship was subsequently prepared to leave Pendik on June 22, heading towards Jedda, with an estimated time of arrival set for July 1.

The underwater hull of the bulk carrier Vitaspirit has undergone a meticulous survey conducted by divers, accompanied by representatives from the classification society and additional surveying panels. Meanwhile, the port master’s incident investigation team has gathered statements from the crew regarding the incident. Experts have also completed an initial damage assessment of the historic mansion that was unfortunately struck by the Vitaspirit. As of April 18, the vessel is still anchored in Istanbul, awaiting clearance to depart due to outstanding salvage fees and a pending letter of guarantee.