Mariners, of Jacksonville's Crowley Maritime Corporation, received recognition at the 2025 Admiral of the Ocean Sea Awards, with two crews honoured for heroism and crisis management that saved lives and prevented environmental disaster, reports Ventura, California's gCaptain.
The United Seamen's Service presented the crew of the 43,729-dwt tanker Stena Immaculate with the AOTOS Special Recognition Plaque for their response to a catastrophic collision in the North Sea in March. The vessel was struck by the Portuguese-flagged 802-TEU Solong while anchored near the Humber Estuary.
The impact ruptured a cargo tank, spilling aviation fuel and igniting a fire that spread to both vessels. Despite the breach, the crew contained the blaze and safeguarded more than 220,000 barrels of fuel while ensuring the safety of all 23 seafarers aboard.
The collision claimed the life of Solong's able seaman Mark Pernia, who remains missing. The vessel's captain, Vladimir Motin, has been charged with gross negligence manslaughter. A UK Marine Accident Investigation Branch report noted poor visibility and the absence of dedicated lookouts.
Separately, the crew of Crowley's El Coqu穩 received the AOTOS Mariner's Plaque for Heroism for rescuing four US boaters whose vessel sank north of the Dominican Republic. The ship diverted from its Jacksonville-to-San Juan route to assist the US Coast Guard and nearby vessel Bonanza.
Crowley Shipping executive James Fowler praised the mariners' courage and professionalism, saying the awards highlight their commitment to safety and preparedness.
Following the collision, Stena Bulk sold the Stena Immaculate in October to a buyer who will repair it at Desan Shipyard. The vessel was reflagged to Malta before the transfer. In August, the US Maritime Administration approved the tanker CS Anthem to replace Stena Immaculate in the Tanker Security Programme.
https://www.shippingazette.com/news?news_id=9251100000849
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