Tanker "Agnes" Faces Maneuverability Issues Near Gibraltar

Update  January 17, 2025 09:00 : Tanker Agnes Receives Assistance from Almi Explorer

Following the earlier maneuverability issues faced by the oil products tanker Agnes (IMO: 9314167) near Gibraltar, a second vessel, the Almi Explorer (IMO: 9579547), has been observed heading toward the stranded tanker, presumably to provide assistance.

The Almi Explorer is a crude oil tanker sailing under the flag of Liberia. Built in 2013, it measures 274 meters in length overall (LOA) and 48 meters in width, with a summer deadweight of 157,787 and a gross tonnage of 84,216. Its current draft is reported at 9.3 meters. As a larger and more robust vessel, the Almi Explorer is well-equipped for rescue or support operations.

While the specific nature of the assistance is not yet confirmed, it is common in such situations for nearby vessels to provide logistical support, towing, or emergency provisions if required. The Agnes, which continues to experience reduced maneuverability due to moderate winds and sea currents, may benefit significantly from this intervention to ensure its safe navigation out of the area.

This development underscores the collaborative efforts often seen in maritime operations, where vessels assist each other during emergencies, preventing further escalation of potentially dangerous situations. Updates will follow as more details about the rescue operation become available.

On January 16, 2025, the oil products tanker Agnes (IMO: 9314167), sailing under the flag of Guyana, encountered maneuverability issues near Gibraltar. Initial reports indicated that the vessel was non-maneuverable, raising concerns about its ability to navigate safely in the area. Later updates suggested that the tanker had regained some maneuverability, as reflected by its Automatic Identification System (AIS) data. However, the ship continued to struggle, being heavily influenced by wind and sea currents.

Environmental factors played a significant role in the tanker's difficulties. At the time, the ship faced a 0.4-knot current and 17-knot wind moving in the same direction. Experts estimate that under such conditions, a stationary tanker could drift at approximately 1.25 knots due to combined hydrodynamic and aerodynamic forces.

The Agnes is a large vessel, measuring 228 meters in length overall (LOA) and 32.24 meters in width. Its size and cargo make it particularly susceptible to external forces when maneuverability is compromised.

While the crew managed to regain partial control, the situation highlights the challenges tankers face in adverse weather and current conditions, particularly in congested areas like Gibraltar. For now, maritime authorities and shipping observers will likely monitor the Agnes closely to ensure it safely navigates out of the area.

This incident adds to a growing list of similar reports involving Russian-linked vessels, raising questions about maintenance and operational protocols. However, no official statements or connections to systemic issues have been confirmed.

Stay tuned for updates as more information becomes available.