Happy New Year from Amver

Wishing you a prosperous and happy new year from the Amver team!

Top 10 Amver blog posts of 2011

What were the most popular Amver blog posts of 2011? Take a look!

Top 10

10. Amver ship Bright Ruby sinks

9.   Amver podcast, The Quarterdeck; Shipping 1022, Pirates, and Social Media

8.  Warning to U.S. registered yachts

7. K Line ship rescues Italian sailors

6.  Japanese tsunami debris frequently asked questions

5.  Announcing the Amver podcast, The Quarterdeck

4.  Amver cruise ship assisting sailors in distress

3.  Newly enrolled Amver ship rescues sailor


2.  Atlantic rower rescued by Amver ship

1.  Amver ship saves two sailors

Photo credit: Fotolia

Madagascar opens Rescue Coordination Sub-Centre

According to a press release from the International Maritime Organization:

A further key link in the plan to provide effective search and rescue (SAR) coverage off the coast of Africa has been established, with the commissioning of a search and rescue sub-centre that will operate in conjunction with the regional Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) in Cape Town, South Africa.

The sub-centre, at Antananarivo, Madagascar, was commissioned on 11 December 2011 by IMO Secretary-General Efthimios E. Mitropoulos, together with Madagascar’s Minister for Transports, Benjamina Ramarcel Ramantsoa and Mr. Jérôme Sambalis Director General of the Agence Portuaire, Maritime et Fluviale (APMF).

The inauguration of the new facility, which will operate as a joint maritime and aeronautical centre, marks an important step in a process that began at a conference on Search and Rescue and the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System, convened by IMO in Florence, Italy, in October 2000. African Governments represented at the Conference agreed on a regional approach to the provision of SAR services in western, southern and eastern parts of the continent as well as in island States around Africa. To that effect, they adopted a resolution inviting the African countries bordering the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, as well as the nearby Atlantic and Indian Ocean Island States, to establish five regional centres and 25 sub-centres to cover their entire coastline for SAR coordination purposes.

The establishment of appropriate SAR facilities off the coast of Africa was seen as a key component in the implementation of the Global SAR Plan, the final part of which had been agreed in 1998 at an IMO Conference in Fremantle, Australia.

Speaking at the inauguration of the Madagascar MRSC, Secretary-General Mitropoulos said, “Manning the Antananarivo Centre on a 24 hour basis, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, will require vigilance, professionalism and a sharp reaction to events – it will not be an easy task!  May those who serve in it live up to our expectations. In thus discharging their responsibilities, they will have the blessings of all those who will owe their lives to the prompt and effective execution of their duties. They and their families will be in their debt forever.”

The commissioning of the Antananarivo facility brings the number of sub-centres now in operation to 15. In March 2011, the fifth and final African MRCC was established in Rabat, Morocco, joining those previously commissioned in Mombasa, Kenya (2006); Cape Town, South Africa (2007); Lagos, Nigeria (2008); and Monrovia, Liberia (2009).

With the completion of the five regional MRCCs, IMO is now using the experience gained in the successful establishment and operation of these centres in Africa as an example for other regions to follow.  The Organization is currently embarking on a similar project for seven countries in Central America, involving the creation of two regional MRCCs, covering areas of the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea respectively, together with five associated sub-centres.

Rescue personnel in Madagascar can enhance their search and rescue capabilities by requesting Amver data from the United States Coast Guard. Requesting an Amver surface picture greatly enhances a rescue organizations ability to perform their search and rescue mission.


Photo credit: IMO via Flickr

Welcome Wednesday!

We hope you're enjoying the holiday break! Here are the latest ships to enroll in Amver. Thank you for a record breaking 2011!

New Amver participants

• ANNOU G.O.
• BARKLY PEARL
• BROVIG VINDUR
• BUENOS AIRES
• CAPE TROY
• CELTIC SEA
• CHRIS GR
• CMA CGM SAMSON
• FORTUNE BAY
• FOUR SKY
• FRONTIER HARVEST
• GLOBAL GENESIS
• GOOD TRADE
• HARMONY STAR
• JK GALAXY
• KAMLESH
• KEI
• KIRANA NAREE
• KOUJU LILLY
• LUCIA BOTTIGLIERI
• MAERSK HEIWA
• MASON BEE
• MEDI OKINAWA
• MSC LUCY
• NATHAN E. STEWART
• ONOZURU MARU
• PACIFIC CANOPUS
• PACIFIC GLORY
• POLYMNIA I
• RICHARD BRUSCO
• THURGAU
• TRANS FRIENDSHIP II
• XIN NING YANG
• ZOSCO DALIAN

See you in 2012!

What we're reading

The best thing about the internet is the amount of niche information you can find. One blog we recently discovered is the Old Salt Blog.

Lot's of great maritime information for the Amver community. Check it out.

What else do we read here in the Amver office?

• Bryant's Maritime Consulting blog
• gCaptain
• Tradewinds
• Lloyd's List
• Safety at Sea International
• Clay Maitland
• The Maritime Executive
• Professional Mariner

In addition to those blogs, we have Google alerts and RSS feeds for

• The Arctic Council
• The Maritime and Coastguard Agency

Finally, you just have to check out the Amver podcast, The Quarterdeck!

Photo credit: Fotolia

Happy Holidays from Amver

The entire Amver team wishes you a very happy Holiday Season!

Welcome Wednesday!

The numbers just keep going up. You have helped contribute to a record setting year and we thank you. This week another 38 vessels have enrolled in the Amver system joining the ranks of mariner helping mariner. Enjoy this holiday season, remember our shipsmates who are still underway, and help us thank these latest participants.

• AMAPOLA
• APL CHONGQING
• ATLANTIC DREAM
• AURORA
• CABALLO XANTHUS
• CACTUS K
• CAPE COSMOS
• CHARMEY
• CHERRY DREAM
• EAGLE ARROW
• EXPANSA
• HHL AMAZON
• K-WAVE
• KOWIE
• LEDA C
• MAERSK NGUJIMA-YIN
• MAGSENGER 6
• MARIA BRUSCO
• MARIANNE STOEGER
• MARIPERLA
• MOONLIGHT II
• MOTION SCAN
• MSC MARIA ELENA
• NORD ROTTERDAM
• NYK TRITON
• OCEAN DYNASTY 138
• PRIMA DORA
• SEAWIND
• SEIFYR
• STEFANOS T
• STOLT FUJI
• SUMMER
• SUPREME ACE
• TANGO
• UNION BAY
• VIKING STAR
• W-EAGLE
• WESTSEA PANTHER

Don't forget to check out the Amver podcast; The Quarterdeck!

Photo credit: Fotolia

Lloyds List names the top 100 in shipping

Did you make Lloyd's List Top 100 in shipping list? Amver didn't. Maybe by sharing it with our readers it will give us a little clout and we can garner a spot next year? Who knows.

What we do know is that if the top 100 in shipping all worked to encourage Amver enrollment we'd have hundreds more ships available to save lives (hint hint).

Download the entire list here (link to pdf).

Photo credit: Fotolia

The Quarterdeck; Year end wrap up

This episode of The Quarterdeck is a short wrap up of just how Amver performed in 2011. It was a record breaking year with over 2,000 ships enrolling and ended with over 5,000 vessels on plot. Our co-host, Admiral Jim Watson, is now Director Jim Watson of the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement for the U.S. Department of Interior. We wish him well.

Here is a direct link to The Quarterdeck audio file.

The Quarterdeck transcript is available here.

Links:

• Interior Secretary Salazar names Read Admiral James Watson as new Director of the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement
• Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement

We'll be back in 2012 with more interviews and Amver stories. Have a wonderful and safe holiday!

The Quarterdeck theme song is Botany Bay by the Blaggards available on musicalley.com. Don't forget to download The Quarterdeck in iTunes!

Is there something specific you would like to hear on The Quarterdeck? Leave your suggestion in the comments below and we'll do our best to cover it in an upcoming episode!

 

 

 

 

U.S. Merchant Marine Academy transfers training ship to Texas A&M University

According to a press release by the Maritime Administration, the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy has transferred the training ship Kings Pointer to Texas A&M University. The U.S. Merchant Marine academy is preparing for a renovation of Mallory Pier. The project is expected to take 12 to 18 months during which time there will be no docking facilities for a vessel the size of the Kings Pointer.

The Academy will still use the training ship Liberator and will continue to send midshipmen on commercial ships to obtain their sea time.

In addition to their sea time, U.S. Merchant Marine Academy midshipmen learn about the Amver system and often file Amver reports while underway.

Photo credit: Wikipedia

Amver participant Crystal Serenity rescues Atlantic rowers

Two Atlantic rowers were rescued by the Amver participating cruise ship Crystal Serenity after their rowboat capsized several hundred miles west of the Canary Islands Tuesday December 13, 2011

The rowers, a Dutch and British national, were participating in the Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge from the Canary Islands to Barbados when their boat capsized.

They immediately activated their Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon alerting rescue authorities at MRCC Falmouth, United Kingdom. Rescue authorities in Falmouth also requested Amver information from the United States Coast Guard. Using an Amver surface picture, the cruise ship Crystal Serenity was located 120 miles away from the rowers and asked to divert to rescue them. The cruise ship immediately changed course to assist the rowers. The rescue was complicated by winds in excess of 25 knots and 10 foot waves.

According to crew members aboard the Crystal Serenity the survivors are in good health and will stay aboard the cruise ship until it reaches St. Maarten.

The Bahamian flagged cruise ship enrolled in the Amver system in 2003 and earned over 6 awards for participation.

Want to learn more about Amver? Check out the Amver video.

Photo credit: Wikipedia

Welcome Wednesday!

The end of the year is near. Despite the holiday rush, you continue to enroll your vessels and save lives at sea. During the holiday rush, take some time to think about the impact that makes in the lives of those you have helped. You, the Amver participant, provide a remarkable service. Thank you. Now please help us welcome the latest members of the Amver team.

• ALLIANCE
• AM CONTRECOEUR
• CENTRANS APHRODITE
• CK BLUEBELL
• CMB ARIANE
• CRYSTAL BAY
• CSCC TIANJIN
• DANCING WITH DRAGONS
• DESERT VICTORY
• DUBAI BEAUTY
• DUBAI BRILLIANCE
• EPIC EXPLORER
• HELIOS LEADER
• INCEPTION
• JIA HUI SHAN
• KALIBLOBO SPIRIT
• MAJESTY
• MS SOPHIE
• NAIAD 1
• NIKITA SCAN
• ORION PRIDE
• OSG ENTERPRISE
• POS AMETRIN
• POS TOPAS
• RASHEED
• RASHEEDA
• SANTA ROSA
• SFAKIA WAVE
• STAR POLARIS
• STENA SUEDE
• STENA SUPERIOR
• TEN JO MARU
• VALE CHINA
• VIL BALTIC
• XIN TONG YANG
• YULIA

Don't forget to check out the Amver podcast, The Quarterdeck!

Photo credit: Fotolia

Amver ship rescues 7

According to a press release by the British Maritime and Coastguard Agency, the Amver participating ship Ocean Titan rescued seven sailors yesterday after the collision of two ships (M/V Florice and M/V Afrodite) south southwest of Lands End within the British search and rescue region.

Using a combination of Long Range Identification and Tracking and Enhanced Group Calling the rescue professionals at Rescue Coordination Center Falmouth were able to divert the Ocean Titan to the distress position where the crew of the Florece had taken to their life raft. The seven crew members, made up of Russian, Polish and Ukrainian nationals, were safely taken aboard the Ocean Titan.

The United States flagged ship enrolled in Amver in 2005 and has earned six awards for participation. The Ocean Titan is managed by Pacific Gulf Marine of Gretna, La.

Photo credit: Marinetraffic.com

Amver awards in China

The Amver team recently returned from Marintec China where we exhibited, recruited more ships in the Amver system, and recognized the 15 companies and 27 Chinese ships that earned Amver awards in 2010. A special thanks to the U.S. Commercial Service and U.S. Coast Guard Captain Barry Compagnoni, Coast Guard Liaison to China, for helping ensure the ceremony was a success. We would also like to thank those companies that came to the ceremony to be recognized as partners in safety at sea. Those present to receive their awards were-

• J.M. Cordeiro, Managing Director of Bernhard Schulte Shipmanagement (China) Company Limited
• Captain Li Yarong, China Shipping Container Lines Company, Limited
• Zhang Lei, General Manager, Shanghai Costamare Ship Management Company Limited
• Zhang Hongnan, Port Captain, Shanghai Costamare Ship Management Company Limited

Want to join these companies at the next Amver awards ceremony in China? You can if you enroll your ships in the Amver system.

Photo credit: USCG Photo by Beverly Howard

Welcome Wednesday!

We're preparing for the holiday season and reflecting on what an amazing year it has been. It's been amazing because so many ships have enrolled in Amver, ensuring no call for help goes unanswered. Who are these partners in safety? Take a look-

• ADRIATICA
• AMERICAN COURAGE
• ASTI SNUG
• ATLANTIC GLORY
• BAI CHAY BRIDGE
• CALLISTO GLORY
• CHRISTOS THEO
• CK ANGIE
• CROSBY ENDEAVOR
• FRONTIER OASIS
• G. SYMPHONY
• GOTIA
• HOEGH SINGAPORE
• IBRI LNG
• INCEPTION
• KOTA BAHAGIA
• LADY GERALDINE
• MOURMOURA
• MSC LISA
• NORD INTEGRITY
• OCEAN QINGDAO
• ORPHEAS
• QUINN J
• SHARON DEHART
• SIVA ANTWERP
• TORM ISLAND
• VITA

Photo credit: Fotolia

Amver participating research ship saves 93 fishermen

We recently learned the Amver participating research vessel, Atlantis, from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution recently rescued 93 Egyptian fishermen in the Mediterranean Sea.

The Atlantis enrolled in the Amver system in 1997 and has earned another award for participation in 2011.

Here is information from their release:

The research vessel Atlantis, operated by Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI), rescued 93 Egyptians aboard a disabled fishing boat in the Mediterranean Sea late Friday night (Nov. 25).

Atlantis was commencing an oceanographic research expedition, steaming toward its first study site, when it was diverted by a mayday call at 9 p.m. from a fishing boat that was relayed to all nearby ships by the Greek Coast Guard. Atlantis responded to the call and began the rescue, coordinating with the Greek Coast Guard and the Rescue Coordination Center.

Following standard security procedures, Atlantis Captain A.D. Colburn III raised the ship’s U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Security Level from I to II and took protective measures to secure non-crew members inside the vessel, locking all exterior hatches and portholes before boarding the Egyptians.

By midnight, all 93 men were aboard the deck of Atlantis, a ship that had 50 crew, technicians, and scientists aboard. The fishing boat was abandoned with its lights and power on, its position radioed to the Greek Coast Guard.

The Atlantis crew provided blankets, pillows, and clothing, including dry socks for the Egyptians, who had been standing in water aboard their boat and were cold, hungry, and dehydrated. Atlantis’s cook gave them loaves of bread and other food. Crew members stayed on deck with the Egyptians through the night, as Atlantis diverted 88 miles to the Greek port of Kalamata.

Atlantis arrived in Kalamata at 8 a.m. Saturday. The Egyptians disembarked and were processed by Greek officials. After Captain Colburn gave his statement to authorities, Atlantis departed Kalamata at 10:30 a.m. to return to its research mission Sunday.

In a statement to “all hands” aboard Atlantis, Captain Colburn wrote: “On the behalf of WHOI, I would like to commend you for your efforts during the rescue of 93 persons on the fishing boat last night. Foremost on our minds was the safety of the persons needing rescue and also the safety of all aboardAtlantis. We all can be proud that we did our duty as seafarers. It was a long and satisfying night, knowing we helped others in need. Now let's concentrate on our science mission.”

Photo credit: Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution

Visit Amver at Marintec

Are going to be in Shanghai, China at the Marintec Shipping Exhibition November 29th to December 2nd? Stop by the Amver booth 4C68 and say hello the the team and learn how to enroll your ships!

We'll see you there!

Welcome Wednesday!

Despite limited access to the Internet we are committed to bringing you the list of the latest vessels to enroll in Amver. Help us welcome the latest member of the Amver safety network.

ANGY R
CAPTAIN V. LIVANOS
CERRADO
CPO AUSTRALIA
DEBRA D
DUBAI ATTRACTION
FIGARO
GREEN PROVIDER
IDSHIP BULKER
MAERSK MIYAJIMA
MERMAID SAPPHIRE
MERMAID VANTAGE
MS JOLIE
MS SARA JANE
NEW ZOSCO HANGZHOU
NIKKEI VERDE
PACIFIC STAR
PERLA
RUDOLF SCHULTE
SAMCO REDWOOD
SCOTIAN EXPRESS
SEABOURN QUEST
SEDNA OCEAN
SELENE TRADER
SERTAO
STEFFI C
STX PRIDE
TALIA
TALIA
TURQUOISE OCEAN
UBC ONSAN
VEGA LEA
W-ACE
WADI ALKARM
WILLEM DE VLAMINGH

We hope you will join as well. Visit www.amver.com to enroll today.

Amver tanker rescues heart attack victim

On Thursday November 24, 2011 the Amver participating tanker Clipper Daisy rescued a 56 year old sailor suffering a possible heart attack aboard his sailboat 170 miles southwest of Bermuda. Another Amver ship, the Mary Ann Hudson also diverted to assist but wasn't needed.

The Marshall Island flagged tanker was only 120 miles away from the 36 foot sailboat when U.S. Coast Guard rescue personnel requested it divert and assist the operator of the Canadian sailing vessel Argo V. The yachtsmen's condition had been discussed with a Canadian doctor through a communication network involving HAM radio operators in Montreal and Coast Guard personnel in Portsmouth, Virginia.

The Clipper Daisy arrived on scene and safely transferred the sailor. The Clipper Daisy crew gave him food and medication but he remained weak. Captain Vivek Srivastava, operator of the Clipper Daisy, reported the sailors condition to the Coast Guard and immediately changed course for Bermuda. After arriving in Bermuda the patient was transferred by small boat to paramedics who rushed him to the hospital where it was confirmed the patient suffered a heart attack. Bermuda medical personnel reported the sailor was admitted to the hospital in stable condition.

The Clipper Daisy, managed by Clipper Group Management of the Bahamas, enrolled in the Amver system on December 27, 1998.

Photo credit: vessel traffic.com

The Quarterdeck; Interview with the Council on Foreign Relations

This episode of The Quarterdeck comes from the Council on Foreign Relations in New York City. Admiral Jim Watson, Ben Strong and special guest U.S. Coast Guard Captain Melissa Bert discuss the Coast Guard's involvement in the Council and how Coast Guard involvement can help shed a better understanding of the maritime sector among the members of the Council.

Here is a direct link to The Quarterdeck audio file.

The Quarterdeck transcript is available here.

Links

•  U.S. Coast Guard Captain Melissa Bert.
• Council on Foreign Relations items on piracy.
• Passenger Vessel Association

The Quarterdeck theme song is Botany Bay by the Blaggards available on musicalley.com. Don't forget to download The Quarterdeck in iTunes!

Is there something specific you would like to hear on The Quarterdeck? Leave your suggestion in the comments below and we'll do our best to cover it in an upcoming episode!

If Prince William cannot save you, who can?

The internet is buzzing over the recent news that Prince William helped rescue two sailors from a commercial ship. His bravery is commended, but what if those sailors were farther out at sea? Who or what could have rescued them?

The United States Coast Guard Amver System is what would save them. Tracking the whereabouts of over 5,000 ships per day, the Amver voluntary search and rescue system saves a life every 33 hours saves a life every 33 hours. Listen firsthand to one of these amazing rescues here- http://www.amver.com/audio/sailing-vessel-triumph-rescue.mp3.

Your ships can join this amazing network of vessels working to ensure no call for help goes unanswered. Will you join today? You can learn more or enroll at http://www.amver.com.

Pole Star and Amver partnership reaches 1,500 ships

There are now more than 1,500 vessels contributing position reports to the Amver search and rescue plot via the Pole Star automatic Amver link.

In close collaboration with Amver, Pole Star develoed the automatic link in 2008, allowing ship owners and operators to automatically send position reports directly to Amver, relieving the master of manually submitting reports from the bridge.

Initially available to Fleet Management customers, Pole Star extended the Amver link to their SSAS Alert Advanced customers in March. Since that time, the number of vessels using the feature has almost doubled, growing at a rate of 4 vessels per day and reaching a new high of 1,500 vessels this week.

"Pole Star is committed to promoting safety of life at sea which includes helping reduce the bureaucratic burden on the master and ship's officers," commented Paul Morter, Director of Sales (Commercial Marine) at Pole Star. "Automated reporting to Amver is one way of supporting these goals."

Pole Star's commitment to safety at sea is evident in this partnership. The number of Pole Star customers electing to participate in Amver helps ensure no call for help goes unanswered. It's a demonstration of the sorts of achievements that can be accomplished when government and private sector work together.

Happy Thanksgiving from Amver

 

 

 

Happy Thanksgiving from the entire Amver staff!

Photo credit: Fotolia

Welcome Wednesday!

The year is coming to a close and this is the eve of the American Thanksgiving holiday. On that note we want to say Thank You to all of our Amver participants, especially those who enrolled in the past week.

You helped us reach a new all time high on plot! On Sunday November 20th there were 5.140 ships available for search and rescue! Now help us welcome the latest members of the Amver family.

• A MAX
• BAHIA BLANCA SW
• BREEZE ISLAND
• CARNIVAL MAGIC
• CHEMROAD SEA
• CHURCHILL BULKER
• DARYA KANCHAN
• DARYA MA
• DARYA MANTHAN
• DAVID REESE
• EIT PALMINA
• ELISALEX SCHULTE
• GOLDEN ENDURER
• KEY LIME
• KROUSSON
• KURE HARBOUR
• LADY GLORIA
• MINERVAGRACHT
• MSC PAMELA
• NAVIOS MARCO POLO
• NEWLEAD GUJARAT
• OCEAN PATRIOT
• RUTH THERESA
• SANKO FRONTIER
• SKANDI PACIFIC
• STOLT SANDPIPER
• STORM RIDER
• THERESA BEGONIA
• VISHVA PRERNA
• XIN BEIJING

Don't forget to listen to the Amver podcast, The Quarterdeck!

Photo credit: Fotolia

Amver ship Bright Ruby sinks in South China Sea

An Amver participating bulk carrier, the M/V Bright Ruby, sank in the South China Sea 350 miles off the coast of Hong Kong, according to a news report from Tradewinds today, November 22, 2011. 14 crewmen have been rescued in what is being reported as a "... major search and rescue operation" involving rescue assistance from Hong Kong and Vietnam.

The Bright Ruby was reportedly on a voyage from Malaysia to China when it encountered heavy seas. 14 crewmen have been rescued. Seven crewmen remain missing.

You may remember the Bright Ruby was hijacked by pirates for 37 days back in 2008.

The South Korean flagged bluker enrolled in the Amver safety network in 1987 and earned 15 awards for participation.

What is Amver? Click here to learn more.

Photo credit: shipspotting.com

U.S. Coast Guard Admiral James Watson named Director of the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement

U.S. Coast Guard Admiral Jim Watson, the current Director of Prevention Policy and co-host of the Amver podcast, The Quarterdeck, was recently named the new Director of the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement in the U.S. Department of the Interior. 

According to a press release from the Department of the Interior- 

"Admiral Watson has the experience, leadership, and vision that BSEE needs to be successful in establishing and enforcing safety and environmental protections for offshore oil and gas operations," said Secretary Salazar. "Admiral Watson will bring to the job a distinguished record, a commitment to tough and fair-minded enforcement, and the determination to advance our reform agenda for the benefit of the American people and industry."

"The safe and responsible production of oil and gas from our nation's oceans is vital to our energy security," said Admiral Watson. "I look forward to leading the dedicated BSEE professionals to ensure each and every offshore operation is safe, secure, and environmentally sound."

Congratulations Shipmate!

Read the entire press release here.

Photo credit: USCG photo

Amver tanker saves one in Atlantic rescue

An Amver ship saved one sailor after his companion was washed overboard in a dramatic rescue 280 miles northwest of Bermuda on November 11, 2011.

The two were aboard their 38 foot sailboat, Triple Stars, taking part in the NARC Rally sailing from Newport, R.I. to Bermuda when one person was washed overboard. "We were hit by a 30 foot wave," stated the survivor. "My wife went through the bimini top and I saw her floundering in the water, there were 25 foot seas and I threw her a life ring which she grabbed onto, but when I brought the boat around, I saw her go under and not resurface." 

U.S. Coast Guard personnel from the Fifth District Command Center diverted the Amver participating tanker High Jupiter. "We are proceeding to rescue other person who is on the sailing vessel," said the captain of the 600 foot tanker. "Man overboard reported missing for a long time however after rescuing person on sailing vessel, will initiate search and rescue for the MOB [man overboard]." Several Coast Guard rescue aircraft from Air Station Elizabeth City was also used in the search.

The Hong Kong flagged tanker enrolled in the Amver system in March, 2009. The survivor is being cared for by the crew of the High Jupiter and will be met by U.S. State Department personnel when the ship arrives in France on or about November 22, 2011.

The other sailor was not found.

Photo credit: marinetraffic.com

Amver ship rescues three sailors from the Atlantic

Three sailors were rescued by an Amver participating container ship after their 38 foot sailboat, Shunpiker, lost power 246 miles east of Savannah, Ga. on November 4, 2011.

U.S. Coast Guard rescue personnel received two Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) alerts for the sailboat which had departed Washington, N.C. on a voyage to Marsh Harbor, Bermuda. Rescue personnel sent a rescue aircraft from Air Station Elizabeth City and requested the Amver participating container ship, E.R. Albany, divert to the last known location of the Shunpiker.

The aircraft used their direction finding capabilities to quickly locate the sailboat but were unable to see it as winds were greater than 30 knots and waves were 7 to 10 feet. The E.R. Albany was only three hours away and quickly turned to offer assistance.

The E.R. Albany came alongside the Shunpiker and lowered a pilot ladder. All three yachtsmen were able to quickly climb aboard the 659 foot ship and were in good health with no injuries. The sailboat was left adrift.

The Liberian flagged container ship will take the survivors to its next port of call in Aljezier, Spain where they will return to the United States.

The E.R. Albany, managed by ER Schiffahrt GmbH of Hamburg, Germany, enrolled in the Amver system in April, 1996 and has earned 6 awards for participation.

Photo credit: Crew of the M/V E.R. Albany

Welcome Wednesday!

Every week we take a moment and celebrate the latest members of the Amver system. These vessels enroll and become part of an incredible system of commercial ships dedicated to safety at sea. The sea is unforgiving, as demonstrated here, which is why Amver is important. Thank you for joining. Help us welcome the latest members.

• AET INNOVATOR
• AMAZING SALUTE
• AQUALEADER
• BALLYHOO
• CHEM VEGA
• CMA CGM BIANCA
• DESTINATION
• EPIC EXPLORER
• FRONTIER LODESTAR
• HELLESPONT CHIEFTAIN
• INTREPID REPUBLIC
• JAMES T. QUIGG
• JASCON 25
• JIN DA HAI
• JIN MEI
• KARIN LYNN
• KOKUKA COURAGEOUS
• NORD FUJI
• OCTBREEZE ISLAND
• OSG ENDURANCE
• PRINCIMAR GRACE
• Q MYRTALIA
• SAOOK BAY
• STENA PREMIUM
• TATJANA
• TEMPANOS
• UNION ERWIN
• WUGANG ATLANTIC
• YANGTZE ETERNAL

Have you joined yet?


Photo credit: Fotolia

Four sailors rescued by Amver container ship

Four sailors were rescued by an Amver participating container ship after their sailboat lost steering 160 miles northwest of Bermuda on Sunday November 6, 2011.

The Elle, a 46 foot sailing yachts, was participating in the North American Rally to the Caribbean, from Newport to Bermuda, when they encountered gale force winds greater than 40 knots and 30 foot seas.

Rescue authorities in Bermuda received the initial distress call and U.S. Coast Guard rescue personnel agreed to assist in the search and rescue case. U.S. Coast Guard rescue personnel launched a rescue aircraft from Air Station Elizabeth City and diverted the 387 foot Amver participating container ship Oleander.

The Marshall Island flagged ship, on a voyage to Bermuda, was near the distress and Captain Jurszo agreed to diver and assist the sailboat.

"The Elle had lost her steering and we were helplessly adrift in the gale. In 30 to 40 knot winds and 30 foot seas Captain Jurszo expertly maneuvered the Oleander next to the Elle gently touching her side," stated Elle survivor Mr. Brian Finn. "Further complicating matters was the fact our mast was swinging wildly near his outside steering station, almost hitting him in the head," Finn added.

The rescue was not without additional challenges. "Things got even more challenging when I plunged in the ocean," Finn recalled in an email to the Amver office. "The crew reacted perfectly. They threw me a line that I tied onto my safety harness and they hauled me over the side. Thy successfully got us all on board!" he wrote.

The Oleander, managed by Bermuda Container Lines of Hamilton, Bermuda, enrolled in the Amver system in 1990 and earned 12 awards for participation.

Here are photos documenting the rescue operations.




















Photo credits: Chris Melrose, NOAA

Amver in words

What are the words that make up Amver? Take a look and see.

Welcome Wednesday!

More and more the value of Amver is demonstrated. Rescue authorities from MRCC Rabat recently requested Amver data for a possible disabled sailing yacht within their search and rescue region. Thankfully the yachtsmen did not require assistance. The value of Amver increases as more ships enroll, and this week we add an additional 63 ships to the roles. Help us in welcoming them.

• GOLDEND CONENANT
• GRAND MURCURY
• FATIH
• BRAVO
• JURUTI
• MARVELLOUS
• CHANG HANG HU PO
• ALPS WIDENSHINE
• CAPTAIN ANDREADIS
• PACIFIC PEACOCK
• BAHRAIN VISION
• GL QUSHAN
• KT KONDOR
• LITTLE PRINCE
• NORD ANTWERP
• HANHIN RIZHAO
• DEEP SEA 1
• WUGANG INNOVATION
• MOL GLIDE
• TOM SELMER
• SEACOR RELENTLESS
• BLUE TARPON
• MANDARIN SINGAPORE
• DESERT GLORY
• PRINCE HENRY
• AARGAU
• CHEMICAL VOYAGER
• POLAR DUKE
• HARVEY HAULER
• SUNNY AMAZON
• E ELEPHANT
• PETROLIMEX 11
• PETROLIMEX 09
• PETROLIMEX 12
• PETROLIMEX 14
• PETROLIMEX 15
• VALCONCA
• BLUE GADUS
• EQUINOX
• MAERSK WAKAYAMA
• D. FRANCISCO ALMEIDA
• HELENKA B
• MAERSK MAGELLAN
• VEENUS
• KANCHANA NAREE
• GANGES STAR
• NORD VANCOUVER
• BBC RHINE
• ZIM TEXAS
• GARDENIA ACE
• METEOR
• SONANGOL ZAMBIZANGA
• FPMC 28
• VALE ITALIA
• HOW WILDWING
• STEALTH SKYROS
• GOOD NEWS
• MAERSK NOBLE
• LOBITO
• UBC SALAVERRY
• KT BIRDIE
• MATISSE

Don't forget to check out the Amver podcast, The Quarterdeck!

Photo credit: Fotolia

The Quarterdeck; Interview with the National Maritime Center

This episode of The Quarterdeck comes to you from the United States Coast Guard Innovation Expo. Recorded in front of a live studio audience (actually the convention center crew that was taking down tables and chairs) Admiral Watson, Ben Strong, and special guest, from the National Maritime Center, U.S. Coast Guard Lieutenant Christy Casey discuss the merchant mariner credentialing process.

You can meet the National Maritime Center staff at the upcoming International Workboat Show in New Orleans, La., November 30 to December 2, 2011. You can meet NMC staff at booth 3604.

Here is a direct link to The Quarterdeck audio file.

The Quarterdeck transcript is available here.

Links

• The National Maritime Center
• Merchant Mariner Application checklists
• TWIC Card information
• Email the National Maritime Center (iasknmc@uscg.mil)
• Merchant Mariner Personnel Advisory Committee
• Merchant Mariner Medical Advisory Committee
• Prefer to call the National Maritime Center? The number is 1-888-427-5662

The Quarterdeck theme song is Botany Bay by the Blaggards available on musicalley.com. Don't forget to download The Quarterdeck in iTunes!

Is there something specific you would like to hear on The Quarterdeck? Leave your suggestion in the comments below and we'll do our best to cover it in an upcoming episode!

Welcome Wednesday!

It's that time of the week again. Time to single out the ships that enrolled in the Amver system in the past week. This week is especially important because your participation helped us over the 2,000 ship mark. Yup, over 2,000 ships signed up for Amver this year. Thank you! Now help us welcome the latest members.

• AL RIQQA
• AURORA ISLAND
• BLUEGREEN TIGRE
• CINDY BROWN TIDE
• DAMAS HORSE
• FOUESNANT
• FOUR DIAMOND
• FREJA ANDROMEDA
• GIANNIS
• HHL NILE
• HOLY VICTORIA
• HYUNDAI SUCCESS
• KALYARA
• KING HADLEY
• LAUSTRAL
• MALUKU PALM
• MORNING CAROL
• NORD CREST
• ORIENT TRAIL
• OSLO BULK 3
• PHOENIX STRENGTH
• SANTA CATARINA
• U-SEA COLONSAY
• UNITED MADERAS
• VALIANT
• WARNOW JUPITER
• ZEN-NOH GRAIN MAGNOLIA

Don't forget to check out the Amver podcast, The Quarterdeck! The next episode is coming soon  and will cover the merchant mariner credentialing process. 

Photo credit: Fotolia

Amver cruise ship rescues 5 near Bermuda

The Amver system proved is worth this past weekend when the cruise ship Norwegian Gem was diverted 256 miles north west of Bermuda to assist the five crew aboard the sailing yacht Sanctuary which was slowly taking on water.

Alert

U.S. Coast Guard rescue authorities in Portsmouth, Va. received a distress call from the 39 foot sailing boat after the crew reported they were taking on water in ten foot seas and 30 knot winds. The crew did not have an emergency position indicating radio beacon (EPIRB) and were using their satellite phone to provide updates to the rescue team.

The Coast Guard launched a C-130 rescue aircraft from Air Station Elizabeth City and queried the Amver system, locating the cruise ship Norwegian Gem which was 50 miles away from the sailboat. The Bahamian flagged cruise ship, which enrolled in the Amver system in 2007, quickly changed course and headed to assist the stricken sailors.

Here is video of the rescue from the cruise ship point of view-



Click here if you can't see the video.

This is the view from the Coast Guard rescue aircraft-



Click here if you can't see the video.

Thanks to the crew of the Norwegian Gem for a job well done. Thanks are also in order for the crew of the Coast Guard aircraft for providing necessary communications and keeping an eye on the rescue operations!

Tsunami debris a possible risk to Amver ships

Here is an interesting report from MSNBC about the possible threat to shipping and the U.S. Coast from the large swath of debris washed out in the Pacific Ocean after the Japanese earthquake and tsunami. This could also pose a risk to Amver ships transiting the Pacific. Have you encountered any debris?

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Welcome Wednesday!

We never cease to be amazed by the numbers of vessels enrolling in the Amver system. Another 61 ships have agreed to divert, to make themselves available in time of need, to possibly save a life. We appreciate this dedication to safety at sea. Help us welcome the latest members of the Amver safety network.

• AQUA VENTURE
• ARDENNE VENTURE
• ARMADA TUAH 101
• ATHENA
• ATLANTIC PROGRESS
• BEIJING VENTURE
• BON ACCORD
• BULK ECUADOR
• CAPE ASIA
• CAPE MANILA
• CAPE VICTORY
• CS CALLA
• DALIAN VENTURE
• DAMAS VICTORY
• DN MILLET
• EASTERN JADE
• EKULO CHEYENNE
• EKULO TORNADO 5601
• ELAND
• ENERGY
• FLAMINA
• FLORES PALM
• FORTUNATO
• GRAND AMANDA
• HANJIN HINASE
• HD PRIDE
• IKAN PARANG
• INCE ILGAZ
• INDUSTRIAL FREEDOM
• JANICE N
• JASA SETIA
• JAVA PALM
• KALIBOBO SPIRIT
• KOTA CARUM
• L/B MYRTLE
• LARA VENTURE
• LAS TORTOLAS
• LONDON TRADER
• MARIA V. LIVANOS
• MOL GRANDEUR
• MOONLIGHT VENTURE
• NADINE VENTURE
• NCC NASMA
• NEW VENTURE
• OCEAN HAWK
• OOCL CANADA
• ORANGE STARS
• PAC BANDA
• PAC DUBHE
• PAC NATUNA
• SEA PIONEER
• SEA VOYAGER
• SPAR CORONA
• SULAWESI PALM
• SUVRETTA
• TRINITY GLORY
• TUMINI
• TURMOIL
• VENTURE SPIRIT
• WESTERN MOSCOW
• ZUIDERKRUIS

Why hasn't your ship enrolled yet?

Photo credit: Fotolia

Amver Awards in Greece

Once more the International Propeller Club of the United States, International Port of Piraeus in cooperation with the United States Embassy of the Hellenic Republic and the United States Coast Guard organized the Amver Awards ceremony.

The ceremony took place at the Athenaeum Intercontinental Hotel on October 13, 20011, among 880 members of the maritime community. One hundred thirty six Greek controlled shipping companies received 94 awards on behalf of 944 vessels participating in the Amver system.

The President of the Propeller Club, Mr. Antonios Stamos Faraklas and the Deputy Chief of Mission, Mrs. Virginia Lynn Bennet of the United States Embassy of American to the Hellenic Republic, welcomed guests. The President remarked "We need to work together, owners and seafarers to achieve the common goals of safety at sea. During these times of world crisis, which has not left shipping untouched, by joining the Amver program you assist our common target, providing safety for the seafarer".

Hope dies last

Secretary General, Mr. Theodoros Kontes, Ceremony coordinator, invited the immediate past President of the Propeller Club and President of Intercargo, Mr. Nicky Pappadakis, who was presented by the President, the Propeller Club Special Achievement Award in recognition of his outstanding services to the Greek and International Shipping community. Mr. Pappadakis thanked the Propeller Club for the award and said "Hope dies last, and many thought they were dead before being rescued by a ship in the Amver scheme, emphasizing the importance of the Amver program."

The representative of the United States Coast Guard, Read Admiral James Watson, Director of Prevention Policy for Marine Safety, Security and Stewardship said he had never seen so many Amver participants and reflected on the fact that of the 5,742 participants in the Amver search and rescue system "In any one day an average of 4,000 ships worldwide are available to save lives". "So far 265 lives have been save this year," Admiral Watson added.

Governor Vasileios Mantzavinos announced the Amver Awards which were presented by Rear Admiral Watson, DCM Mrs. Virginia Lynn Bennet, with top receiving companies Tsakos Shipping and Trading with 53 awards. Mr. George Anomeritis, President of OLD and CEO, Vice Admiral of the Hellenic Coast Guard announced the Amver awards which were presented by Coast Guard Rear Admiral James Watson, DCM, Mrs. Virginia Lynn Bennet, with top receiving award company, Tsakos Shipping and Trading with 53 awards.

Mr. George Anomeritis, President of OLP and CEO, Vice Admiral of the Hellenic Coast Guard, Mr. Constaninos Soulis, Secretary General of Safety and Navigation Mr. Athanasios Christopoulos, Secretary General of Shipping, Mr. Nikolaos Litinas, Secretary General and Port and Port Policy Mr. Athanassios Pallis, Mr. John Plakiotakis, New Democracy Political Party responsible for the shipping domain, Second Vice President of the International Propeller Club Mr. Markos Foros, Dr. John Coustas, Chairman of HELMEPA were all on hand.

Following Mr. Dimitrios J. Fafalios, Propeller Club, Maritime Committee Coordinator, referred to the heavy artillery of  Greece, namely Merchant Shipping and its contributions to Libyan evacuation and announced the Special Propeller Club Rescue Awards.

Honored by their presence, Captain Panayiotis Tsakos, Found of the Tsakos Group, H.E. Baizan Walter, Embassy of Malta, Mr. Rolle Davy, Bahamas Maritime Authority, Mr. Dalakas Aristidis, Nippon Kaiji Kyokai (Class NK), Mr. Houlirakis from ABS.

Also present were the Assistant U.S. Navy Attaché, CDR Jonathan Schwartz, Deputy Counselor for Economic Affairs Daniel Ross, U.S. Embassy.

Attended by Messrs: Mr. Elias Tsaokos  Entrust Maritime, Mr. Apostolos Dougak, Regional Vice President of the Propeller Club for Northern Europe and Africa, Mrs. Despina Foros Tsirozidis, Second Vice President of the Propeller Club, Mr.s Katerina Kalafatides, Mr. Gregory Timagenis, First Vice President of the Propeller Club, mr. V. Katratozos, Mr. Zorbalas, Mr. Vasileious Koutentakis, Mr. K. Rokkos, Mr. I Perantinos Atlantic Bulk Carriers, mr. D. Patrikios General Manager of Springfield Shipping, Mr. S. Bertilone a RINA Regional Manager for Greece and Mr. S. Zolotas Head of RINA- Piraeus, Mr. K. Koutsoubellis Excel Maritime, Mr. D. Constantinou and C. Constantinou, Managing Director Moore Stephens Greece and Board member of the Propeller Club, Mr. F. Teissier Managing Director of Bureau Veritas, Mr. Alex Tomazos Warstilla Group, Mr. Poulovassillis Lloyds Register, representatives of DNV, Danaos Shipping Company Ltd, Kassian Maritime, Cayman Registry, Mrs. Lemou, members and friends of the Propeller Club.

GOLD SPONSORS

TSAKOS COLUMBIA SHIPMANAGEMENT ("TCM") S.A.
ABS EUROPE Ltd.
CLASS NK

SILVER SPONSORS

MARYVILLE MARITIME INC
MARFIN EGNATIA BANK
MOORE STEPHENS CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS
CHARTWORLD SHIPPING CORPORATION & MAJESTIC INTERNATIONAL CRUISES
THE BAHAMAS MARITIME AUTHORITY

BRONZE SPONSORS

HELLENIC LlOYD'S SA
OLP
DELTASKY CONGRESS & TOURS LLC
RBS

VIP COCTAIL SPONSORS

WARTSILA
CASS TECHNAVA
DNV

RECEPTION-OPEN BAR


THE MARSHALL ISLANDS REGISTRY
CHEVRON
A.P&A Group of Companies
SEVERN TRENT DE NORA

REGISTRATION SPONSOR


BUREAU VERITAS

HOSPITALITY SPONSOR


INTERCONTINENTAL HOTEL

AMVER NEWSLETTER


RINA

Congratulations to all those who earned Amver awards in 2010 and thank you to the sponsors, the Propeller Club Port of Piraeus, to the Greek maritime community, and to the men and woman who go to sea. All of you help contribute to safety at sea and ensure no call for help goes unanswered.

Photo credit: Propeller Club, Port of Piraeus

Welcome Wednesday!

Who enrolled in Amver in the past week? Take a look. Another 23 ships have agreed to assist when needed and we are grateful for their dedication to safety at sea. Perhaps your ship is listed below. If not, this is how easy it is to join Amver. In the meantime help us welcome the latest participants.

• AL SHEEHANIYA
• ALTE WESER
• ATHINA L
• BBC HUDSON
• BETTY PFANKUCH
• BORONIA K
• CONTI LAPISLAZULI
• DEEP STIM BRASIL I
• DIAMOND WIND
• DREAM JASMINE
• FOUR BUTTERFLY
• GAZ SYNERGY
• GOLDEN UNITY
• IVS MAGPIE
• KOTA RANCAK
• L/B KAYD
• MAERSK BATAM
• MALANJE
• MARIA M
• NAKOLO
• PARTAWATI
• SFL KATE
• SONGA ECLIPSE

Don't forget, we want to hear your rescue stories. Will you share them with us?

Photo credit: Fotolia