On August 27, the 70 meter long, 1,500 dwt cargo vessel Everwin Star II (IMO: 9140279) suffered an explosion while berthed in Tondo, Manila, Philippines. Reports state the explosion occurred during cargo loading when a spark ignited paint and LPG tanks stored in a forward compartment. The explosion and resulting fire took several hours for local fire fighters to extinguish. No details reported of the extent of damage to the Everwin Star II.
One crewman perished in the explosion while two other crew members sustained burns and later taken to hospital for treatment. Local police and fire authorities have launched an investigation into the incident.
On August 21, the 274 meter long, 163,759 dwt oil tanker Sounion (IMO: 9312145) caught fire in the Red Sea some 77 nautical miles off Hodeidah, Yeman. The Sounion was enroute to Iraq with 150,000 tons of crude oil when it was approached by two small vessels off Yemen. The vessels approached the tanker within a few miles before they turned away after an exchange of small arms fire. Soon after the Sounion was struck by multiple projectiles resulting in explosions and fire on board the tanker. Reports state the engine room sustained material damage disabling the steering. The Sounion went adrift for a short time before the crew was later able to drop anchor.
Photo: x.com
Conflicting reports state the crew of 25 on board the Sounion remained on board the tanker to assess damage. However, there are reports that the crew had abandoned ship in the vessel’s lifeboat and was rescued by the nearby vessel. This same report stated the crew was later transported to Dijbouti. No reports of the extent of damage caused by the projectiles on board the Sounion or if any oil pollution had been released.
The attack on the Sounion was not an isolated event. The 190 meter long, 55989 dwt bulk carrier SW North Wind (IMO: 9514004) reported five explosions near the vessel while 57 miles off Aden. The explosions did not cause any damage and there were no reports of injuries. The bulk carrier was able to continue on its voyage.
On August 13, the fishing vessel Mariah K caught fire 50 nautical miles off Brookings, Oregon. The fire was started after an explosion in the engine room. All three crew on board abandoned ship and later rescued by the charter vessel Eli’s Tide. The Coast Guard was alerted by the Eli’s Tide and dispatched the 47 motor lifeboat along with a helicopter to the scene. Two crew of the Mariah K were transferred to the lifeboat, but one crewman was airlifted by the Coast Guard helicopter and taken to hospital in San Francisco. The Coast Guard has launched an investigation into the incident.
