SSA congratulates members who were recognised at the Maritime & Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) Safety@Sea Awards, held on 19th August 2024. This year’s sole award category, “Outstanding Contribution to Search and Rescue (SAR) Efforts in 2023”, is dedicated to the heroic actions of companies who demonstrated commitment to saving lives at sea.
The award recipients are as follows:
1. CMA CGM International Shipping Company Pte Ltd
Vessel: CMA CGM Ural
On 14th December 2023, the crew of CMA CGM Ural executed a challenging rescue operation in severe weather conditions, saving two individuals from a distressed sailing vessel. Their dedication was evident as they navigated rough seas and high winds to ensure the safety of the survivors, ultimately deviating their course by 489 nautical miles to disembark the rescued individuals.
2. A.P. Moller Singapore Pte Ltd
Vessel: MAERSK VALETTA
On 25th June 2023, MAERSK VALETTA responded to a distress call involving a wooden boat with 34 migrants off the Libyan coast. The crew’s patience and resolve were highlighted as they waited for 17 hours before receiving instructions to conduct the rescue operation. Their efforts ensured the safe transfer of the migrants, including eight unaccompanied minors, after a total diversion of approximately 500 nautical miles.
3. Columbia Shipmanagement (Singapore) Pte Ltd
Vessel: CAPE FRANKLIN
The CAPE FRANKLIN’s crew showcased extraordinary perseverance by rescuing 47 individuals from a disabled boat on 10th May 2023 and 48 individuals from another disabled boat on 19th May 2023. Despite challenging conditions and delays, their commitment to saving lives remained steadfast, involving a total diversion of 463 nautical miles.
4. Rio Tinto Shipping (Asia) Pte Ltd
Vessel: RTM DJUPLAN
On 1st July 2023, RTM DJUPLAN’s crew rescued six survivors from a makeshift raft after they had been stranded for nearly 12 days. Their swift action in locating and assisting the survivors, despite the challenges of drifting and nightfall, ensured the successful completion of a 21-hour rescue operation.
5. Synergy Marine Group
Vessel: IBERIAN BULKER
On 9th January 2023, IBERIAN BULKER’s crew rescued nine individuals from a small wooden craft in the Strait of Florida. Despite poor visibility and rough sea conditions, their quick response and the subsequent safe transfer of the survivors to a naval craft underscored their exemplary SAR efforts.
6. Wan Hai Lines (Singapore) Pte Ltd & Bernhard Schulte Shipmanagement (China) Company Ltd
Vessel: WAN HAI A07
On 6th October 2023, WAN HAI A07’s crew executed a successful rescue of a lone survivor from a sailboat in distress. The crew’s skillful maneuvering and coordination ensured the survivor’s safe transfer to an MRCC rescue boat.
Each of these award-winning teams demonstrated unparalleled courage, skill, and dedication to maritime safety and humanitarian efforts. Congratulations to all our members on their well-deserved recognition!