Sea warnings

UPDATE : the boat appears to have arrived at the port of Madeira. Funchal, Madeira – A distress call has been issued for the sailing vessel Allegra (MMSI 235071981, call sign 2CEC4), overdue from a voyage to Madeira. The vessel, a 13-meter aluminum cutter rigged with two headsails, was last reported on June 21st, approximately 450 nautical miles southwest of Madeira, making slow progress towards the island at a speed of 3.2 knots. There is one person onboard. The vessel is described as having a distinctive UV yellow mainsail cover and a white aluminum arch. Urgent Appeal to Mariners All vessels in the vicinity are urged to maintain a sharp lookout for the Allegra. If sighted, please contact the nearest coastal station or the Maritime Rescue Coordination Center (MRCC) Tenerife immediately via radio or by email at controltenerife@sasemar.es or phone +34922597551. Weather Conditions The weather in the area is deteriorating with a northeast wind increasing to 11 knots with gusts up to...

The UK Coastguard is currently coordinating a search and rescue operation for a distress beacon alert received on May 21st, 2024, at 11:11 UTC. The source of the beacon remains unknown, but its last known position was at 45° 26.97N 011° 00.72W, heading east at the time of the alert. Current Situation: The merchant vessels M/V ALICE (general cargo) and M/V CAROLINE ESSBERGER (oil/chemical tanker) are already on scene or en route to the distress position. Aircraft R40 has completed its search of the area, and CG99 is deploying to assist. Weather conditions are challenging, with winds of 20 knots gusting to 28 knots from the northwest, overcast skies, and 3-meter waves. The weather is expected to worsen later in the day. Call to Action for Vessels in the Area: The UK Coastguard is urging any vessels in the vicinity of the distress position to proceed to the area and assist in the search. Vessels are also requested to attempt contact with the source of the beacon to determine the nature of...

Mount Ruang, located on the island of Sangihe in Indonesia, erupted twice in the early hours of Tuesday, April 30, 2024, generating a massive pyroclastic flow and an ash plume that reached over 20,000 feet (6,100 meters) high. The eruption prompted authorities to raise the alert level to its highest and evacuate people living within a 6-km radius of the volcano. The first eruption occurred at 2:15 a.m. local time on Tuesday morning , followed by a second, even more powerful one at 8:50 a.m. The eruption produced a pyroclastic flow that ravaged the volcano's flanks and reached the sea. A dense, black ash plume rose into the atmosphere, darkening the sky and causing ash to fall on nearby communities. The eruption has led to the closure of Manado airport , which is located about 100 km from the volcano. Authorities have warned that ashfall could pose a hazard to air navigation and have advised residents to stay indoors and wear masks if they must go outside. Mount Ruang is an active s...

 The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) has reported an incident involving a vessel that was the target of two attacks in close proximity to Al Mukha, Yemen. The first attack resulted in an explosion near the vessel, which was felt by the crew on board. The second attack is believed to have involved two missiles that caused damage to the vessel. The Master of the vessel reported the incident, and authorities are currently investigating the details of the attacks. Vessels are advised to exercise caution when transiting through the area and report any suspicious activity to UKMTO. This latest incident highlights the ongoing risks and threats faced by vessels operating in the region. It is essential that all mariners remain vigilant and take appropriate measures to ensure their safety and security.

  Last Updated: April 15, 2024 A distress call (MAYDAY) has been relayed by Cape Town Radio on behalf of the cargo ship "KAVO PERDIKA" (call sign V7A2850). Details of the Distress Call: Vessel: KAVO PERDIKA (MMSI: 538008865, IMO: 9584889) Flag: Marshall Islands Vessel Type: Bulk Carrier Position: 22° 18.368’ South, 038° 05.485’ East Emergency: One crew member reported overboard Weather Conditions in the Area: Southerly winds at 15-18 knots Partly cloudy skies Waves up to 2.7 meters (9 feet) Call to Action: All vessels in the vicinity of the KAVO PERDIKA are urged to assist in the search for the missing crew member. If you are able to help, please contact Cape Town Radio via High Frequency (HF) radio.

  Maritime security in the Eastern Mediterranean is facing a new challenge with reports of widespread AIS spoofing and GPS interference . These incidents, stretching from north of the Suez Canal to the coasts of Syria, Lebanon, and Israel, have raised concerns about potential disruptions to maritime traffic and the risk of navigation errors. The issue follows a UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) report detailing a vessel experiencing disruption to its electronic navigation systems in the Arabian Gulf. This incident adds to the growing tension in the region, particularly following the Israeli airstrike that killed Iranian General Mohammad Reza Zahedi near the Iranian embassy in Damascus. Anticipated Iranian Retaliation? The Times of Israel suggests the GPS jamming might be a defensive measure by Israel in anticipation of Iranian retaliation for the airstrike. This jamming could disrupt Iranian targeting capabilities reliant on GPS, potentially impacting services like Waze and Go...

Chennai, India - April 4, 2024 - The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) is searching for one missing crew member after the Indian fishing vessel PERIYA NAYAGI sank early this morning. According to a report from Inmarsat, the vessel sank at approximately 12:30 am IST (07:00 UTC) in a position approximately 14 degrees 20 minutes north and 81 degrees 2 minutes east, near Krishnapatnam (088 LT 52). Nine of the ten crew members on board have been rescued. The ICG is urging merchant vessels in the area to keep a sharp lookout for the remaining missing crew member and to render assistance if they are spotted. The ICG has requested that any vessels in the area acknowledge receipt of the message and provide their current position, course, and speed to assist in updating the search and rescue (SAR) plan. Vessel Details: Name:  PERIYA NAYAGI FISHBOT Flag:  India MMSI:  419910103 Contact Information for MRCC Chennai

 On April 3, 2021, between 3:49 and 10:00 am (local time in Sanaa) , the USS Gravely (DDG 107) and forces from the United States Central Command (CENTCOM) successfully intercepted and destroyed one anti-ship ballistic missile (ASBM) and two unmanned aerial systems (UAS) launched by Iranian-backed Houthi terrorists from Yemen. The targeted missiles were headed towards the USS Gravely in the Red Sea. There were no reports of injuries or damage to U.S., coalition, or commercial ships as a result of the attacks. Furthermore, during this timeframe, CENTCOM forces destroyed a mobile surface-to-air missile system located in Houthi-controlled territory. The destruction of these systems was deemed necessary as they posed a threat to U.S. and coalition forces and merchant vessels operating in the region. This incident highlights the ongoing tensions in the region and the efforts being made by CENTCOM to protect American interests and maintain stability in the area.

  The Maritime Security Centre Horn of Africa (MSCHOA) has issued a warning to all vessels sailing off the coast of Somalia due to a recent surge in piracy activity. Key Points: Heightened Alert:  Ships in the Somali basin are urged to be extremely vigilant due to an increase in reported piracy incidents. Recent Attacks:  Since late November 2023, there have been multiple hijackings of merchant vessels and dhows (smaller boats). One merchant vessel, the M/V Abdullah, remains under pirate control. Pirate Tactics:  Pirates typically use captured dhows as motherships to approach and attack larger vessels further offshore. The possibility of attacks in the Gulf of Aden cannot be ruled out. Threat Level:  MSCHOA currently assesses the piracy threat off the Somali coast as "Moderate," meaning an attack is a realistic possibility. Recommendations: BMP5 Adherence:  All vessels are strongly advised to strictly follow Best Management Practices Version 5 (BMP5) to enh...

UPDATE 25/03 8:00 UTC: The ship is currently anchored off Paranagua in Brazil March 22, 2024 - An Inmarsat distress alert was received at 11:04:17 UTC on March 22, 2024, for the LPG tanker BWEK ANHOLT. The vessel is currently located in position 25-58S 045-15W, approximately 1,200 nautical miles off the coast of Brazil. The BWEK ANHOLT departed Rio de Janeiro Anchorage on March 21 at 04:18 UTC and was en route to Montevideo, Uruguay, with an estimated arrival time of March 24 at 09:00 UTC. The vessel is a Maltese-flagged tanker built in 2008. It has a length of 120 meters, a beam of 20 meters, and a deadweight tonnage of 22,000. The current weather in the area is reported to be 23 knots with gusts to 36 knots, and seas of 3.2 meters. However, forecasts predict stable weather for the next few hours. Nearby vessels are requested to assist in the search and rescue operation. Any information should be reported to MRCCSAOPAULO@MARINHA.MIL.BR. Further Information: Vessel Name:  BWEK A...

  Source: UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) Location: 50 nautical miles southeast of Aden, Yemen (approximately 12.0509° N, 45.3104° E) Details: The UKMTO has issued an advisory regarding an incident involving a merchant vessel in the Arabian Sea. According to the report submitted by the ship's Master, an explosion occurred at a distance astern (behind) the vessel at approximately 04:18 UTC on March 14, 2024. Important Updates: Thankfully, the vessel sustained no damage from the explosion. The crew is reported to be safe. The ship is currently proceeding to its next scheduled port of call. Investigation and Ongoing Concerns: Local authorities are investigating the cause of the explosion. UKMTO advises all vessels transiting the area to exercise caution and report any suspicious activity immediately. Background: This incident comes amidst heightened tensions in the region, with several reported attacks on commercial vessels near Yemeni waters in recent months. The specific caus...

  Received: 2024-03-14 07:45 UTC To: All Ships Transiting In/Off Somalia, Arabian Sea, Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, Indian Ocean Warning The International Maritime Bureau (IMB) Piracy Reporting Centre (PRC) has received concerning information from MSCHOA (Military Support to Operations) regarding potential pirate activity off the coast of Somalia. Details: Date/Time:  March 14, 2024, at 06:16 UTC Location:  Alongside the coast between Hobyo, Nugal, and Mudug regions, Somalia Threat:  Four suspected pirate skiffs carrying an estimated 36 armed individuals departed the Somali coastline. These groups are likely seeking vessels to target. Recommendations: Vessels are strongly advised to avoid this area entirely. Exercise extreme caution and maintain heightened vigilance. Implement strict anti-piracy measures and watch protocols. Report all attacks and suspicious sightings immediately to local authorities and the IMB PRC as per IMO Circular 1334.

  Mumbai, India - March 13, 2024 - The Indian Coast Guard's Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) Mumbai is coordinating a search and rescue operation for a missing crew member from the Indian cargo vessel MV Ambuja Shakti. Details of the Incident Date and Time of Report:  March 13, 2024, at 05:15 IST (09:45 UTC) Vessel:  MV Ambuja Shakti (MMSI 419476000, Call Sign: AUCLAIS) Flag:  India Vessel Type:  Cement Carrier Last Reported Position:  20 Deg 17.8 N 072 Deg 15 E (approximately 28 nautical miles south of Umargam Light) Nature of Distress:  Man Overboard (MOB) Request for Assistance The MRCC Mumbai is requesting all mariners transiting the area to be on the lookout for the missing crew member and to render assistance if possible. Any sightings should be reported immediately to the MRCC Mumbai.

The Open Arms, a ship operated by the Spanish humanitarian organization Open Arms, set sail from the port of Larnaca, Cyprus on March 12, 2024, carrying 200 tons of humanitarian aid for the Gaza Strip. The aid, which includes rice, flour, canned goods, and other food items, will be distributed to the population of Gaza by World Central Kitchen, a non-profit organization founded by chef José Andrés. The Open Arms is the first humanitarian ship to be authorized to dock in Gaza in nearly a decade. Israel has maintained a blockade on the Gaza Strip since 2007, which has severely restricted the movement of people and goods into and out of the territory. The opening of a humanitarian corridor to Gaza is a significant step forward, and it is hoped that it will help to alleviate the suffering of the Gazan population.

  March 12, 2024 - The International Maritime Bureau's Piracy Reporting Centre (IMB PRC) issued a warning today regarding a pirate attack on a merchant vessel in the Arabian Sea. According to the warning, the attack occurred at approximately 12:08 UTC on March 12, 2024, in a position roughly 550 nautical miles east of Mogadishu, Somalia (specifically, 01° 27' N, 54° 53' E). The message states that several small boats intercepted the merchant vessel: The Company Security Officer (CSO) onboard the vessel reported being boarded by multiple individuals from two boats, one large and one small. The hijackers have reportedly gained control of the vessel. The ship's security alert system (SSAS) was activated, and the crew reportedly took refuge in the citadel, a secure area onboard the vessel. Authorities Advise Caution The IMB PRC is advising all vessels to avoid the area and exercise extreme caution while transiting the Arabian Sea, Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, Indian Ocean, and w...

  The Turkish Coast Guard has issued a notice describing the procedure for the humanitarian maritime corridor in the Black Sea. This corridor has been established to allow the safe passage of merchant ships carrying Ukrainian grain amidst the ongoing conflict. Rules of Passage: Warships and drones:  They are not allowed to approach within 10 miles of any ship transiting the corridor or waiting in the designated waiting areas. Coordinates:  Ships must follow specific routes with defined coordinates. Maneuvering capability:  Ships must be aware of having limited maneuvering capability while transiting the corridor. Signals and lights:  Ships must display the appropriate signals and lights. Transit hours:  Transit is only permitted between 05:00 and 21:00 local time. Waiting Areas: 200-meter channel:  Ships waiting to enter the corridor must do so in a 200-meter wide channel. Specific coordinates are provided for the waiting areas of Odessa, Cho...

London, UK - On February 22nd, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported an attack on a vessel approximately 70 nautical miles southeast of Aden, Yemen. Initial reports: UKMTO first reported an unspecified "incident" in the area (Incident 037). Authorities investigated, and an update confirmed a vessel attack with two missiles, causing a fire onboard. Coalition forces responded to the incident. Latest developments: British maritime security firm Ambrey identified the attacked vessel as a Palau-flagged, UK-owned general cargo ship traveling from Thailand towards the Red Sea. A subsequent UKMTO update (002) clarified that the vessel sustained  minor damage  and is  proceeding safely  to its next port of call. The crew is also reported to be safe. Unknowns: Identity of the attackers remains unclear. Motive behind the attack is still under investigation. Key takeaways: While the attack resulted in minor damage, it highlights the o...

Washington, D.C./Sanaa - On February 21st, U. S. forces conducted four airstrikes in Yemen, targeting mobile Houthi missiles and a drone deemed an imminent threat to maritime traffic and American warships in the Red Sea. This comes amid reports of additional airstrikes in Hodeidah and Ras Isa, with the Houthi-affiliated Almasirah claiming an "Anglo-American aggression. " U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed the self-defense strikes, stating they destroyed seven mobile Houthi Anti-Ship Cruise Missiles, one mobile Anti-Ship Ballistic Missile launcher, and shot down a one-way attack drone. All targets were identified as originating from Houthi-controlled areas and posing an imminent threat. Meanwhile, Houthi media outlet Almasirah reported airstrikes in the Ras Isa area, claiming they targeted the port and were conducted jointly by the U.S. and UK. Al-Jazeera satellite television also reported strikes in Ras Isa, though the target remained unclear. This incident adds t...

  Issued: February 21, 2024, by Meteo-France/Tropical Cyclone Center/La Reunion Tropical Storm: Eleanor (988 hPa) Current Location: 15.9°S 60.4°E (as of 06:00 UTC) Movement: South at 11 knots Threat Areas: Squally weather within a 270-nm radius around the center, extending up to 540 nm in the northwest quadrant. Storm-force winds (50 knots) and high to very high seas within a 35-nm radius, extending further in specific quadrants. Gale-force winds (35/45 knots) and very rough to high seas within a 70-nm radius, extending further in specific quadrants. Near gale-force winds (30 knots) and rough to very rough seas within a 135-nm radius, extending up to 190 nm in the southern semi-circle. Strong gusts under squalls. Forecast: 12 hours (February 21, 18:00 UTC):  Eleanor strengthens to 55 knots, located at 17.9°S 59.8°E. 24 hours (February 22, 06:00 UTC):  Eleanor further strengthens to 60 knots, located at 20.0°S 58.9°E. Important Recommend...

  A call for medical assistance was received by the Rescue Coordination Center (RCC) Norfolk on February 20, 2024, at 20:12 UTC for the cruise ship Ambition . The ship is currently located in the Atlantic Ocean near 24°N 47°W , with a radius of 200 nautical miles. Details of the Situation: Date and Time:  February 20, 2024, at 20:12 UTC Location:  Atlantic Ocean, centered at 24°N 47°W (radius 200 nm) Ship:  Cruise ship Ambition Status:  Requesting medical assistance Route:  Departed Ponta Delgada, Portugal 4 days ago, en route to St. George's, Grenada Call to Action: RCC Norfolk urgently requests any vessels in the vicinity of the Ambition to provide assistance if possible. Important Notes: The nature of the medical emergency is not currently known. Please refrain from sharing any information that could compromise the rescue efforts or identify individuals involved. For updates, monitor official channels of RCC Norfol...