Welcome Wednesday!

As 2016 comes to a close we wanted to welcome the last of the ships enrolled in Amver this year. We wish all of you, seafarers and shore side personnel alike, a very sincere thanks and best wishes for a prosperous 2017. Thank you!

• TAG 18
• SASCO ANIVA
• STOLT SINCERITY
• ARCTIC PROWLER
• RIOJA KNUTSEN
• LENA B
• JS INEOS INNOVATION
• ANTIGUA I
• CRIMSON ARK
• BERING TITAN
• SEQUOIA
• SEAWORK 123
• PRACHI

Photo credit: Fotolia

Happy Holidays from Amver

Amver Tanker Saves Four French Yachtsmen

The Amver particiating tanker Orfeas rescued four French sailors from a disabled 50-foot sailboat in heavy seas 1,082 miles east of Puerto Rico on  Sunday, December 18, 2016.

The international rescue operation started with rescue authorities in Forte de France contacted U.S. Coast Guard personnel in San Juan, Puerto Rico of a disabled sailboat in heavy weather requesting assistance after their rudder failed.

U.S. rescue authorities utilized an Amver Surface Picture to locate and contact the 748-foot crude oil tanker Orfeas which was approximately 250 miles away from the sailboat. The captain of the Orfeas immediately agreed to divert and assist the sailors.

The Bahamian flagged tanker was able to safely embark the four French yachtsmen despite 40 knot winds and 16-foot seas. The survivors were uninjured and will remain on the Orfeas until it reaches its next port of call in Gibraltar.

The Orfeas, managed by Grace Management of Greece, enrolled in Amver on December 18, 2013.

Photo credit: Marinetraffic.com

Welcome Wednesday!

Who enrolled in Amver this week? A mix of box ships, tankers and bulk carriers along with one ore carrier. Flag states from Panama to New Zealand enrolled. The question is, have you joined? We would be honored to have you as part of our international safety network. Now help us welcome the latest members of the Amver network.

• YM UBIQUITY
• SHINYO KIERAN
• BAFFIN
• CELIGNY
• BRITISH REGARD
• FMG NICOLA
• NORD TAURUS
• ILLOVO RIVER
• LIAN PING HU
• KSL SINGAPORE
• BUFFALO
• LEONTIOS H

Photo credit: Fotolia

Welcome Wednesday!

As we begin to close out 2016 and welcome in 2017 we are reminded of the amazing work done by seafarers all around the world. This time of year, more than ever, we're reminded of the importance of seafarers. You are the Santas of the Sea! Without seafarers our gifts, food and countless other goods simply wouldn't arrive. Thank you seafarers for supplying us and for enrolling in Amver!

Here are the latest ships that joined Amver this week.

• SBI MACARENA
• BRITISH SAILOR
• OCEAN TIANBAO
• HIGH WIND
• AGIOS FANOURIOS I
• BULK PARAGUAY
• PARTHENON TS
• AQUILES
• REFORMA PEMEX
• MEDI GLADSTONE
• WOODSIDE REES WITHERS

Photo credit: Fotolia

Welcome Wednesday!

The holiday season is fast approaching. We're thankful for the gift of you. Your continued support of Amver and continued enrollment ensures we can save lives at sea. If you haven't joined Amver yet, help us make 2016 a banner year for new members and enroll today. Help us welcome the latest members of the Amver safety network.

• OCEAN AMBITIOUS
• MOUNT GOUGH
• MARAN ARIADNE
• KHASAB SILVER
• IVS GLENEAGLES
• NEW ENERGY
• CIELO DI SALERNO
• NAVIOS SHERPA
• NAVIOS MARS

Photo credit: Fotolia

Welcome Wednesday!

Big things come in small packages. We're happy that another batch of vessels have chosen to join Amver this week. Help us make them feel welcome.

• SEARCHER
• STENA IMMACULATE
• ALKAIOS
• OYSTER BAY
• RBD BOREA
• ALMIRANTE GASTAO MOTTA

Photo credit: Fotolia

Welcome Wednesday!

If you want to know who joined Amver you don't need to look much further than this. Each week we bring you the list of ships newly enrolled. We've been bringing this list to the maritime public for almost as long as there has been an Amver publication. All those ships, all participating in a global search and rescue system, all part of a global search and rescue system.

Commitment to safety at sea is our bedrock and we hope you'll continue to help us build on our foundation of mariner helping mariner. Now help us welcome the latest members of the Amver family.

• STENA HORIZON
• UNITY EXPLORER
• BW MALACCA
• PACIFIC CONGYING
• LINUS P
• TUNSIN
• NAVION EUROPA
• CSK VANGUARD
• MARAN GAS HECTOR
• COURAGEOUS
• CAJUN SUN
• FAIRCHEM KATANA
• ALBERT II

Photo credit: Fotolia

Welcome Wednesday!

Here is the latest list of vessels enrolled in the Amver system. You've probably heard about Amver, you may already participate and you may know a shipowner, manager or seafarer that doesn't think they need to participate. Help change their mind.

Amver still provides a value to search and rescue personnel by ensuring the right ship is sent to the right place at the right time. Help us, share the Amver story with your colleagues today.

• MAX PRODUCER
• APAL
• NORD POLLUX
• BW MAGELLAN
• SUNRISE
• U.S. INTREPID
• LOG-IN JATOBA
• HELLAS APHRODITE
• HELLAS GLADIATOR
• FOMENTO ONE
• HELLAS APPOLO
• MP ULTRAMAX 1
• BRITISH CUMULUS
• MP ULTRAMAX 2
• STI JERMYN
• STOLT YURI

Photo credit: Fotolia

Welcome Wednesday!

Any time a ship enrolls in Amver we increase the likelihood a call for help, anywhere in the ocean, will be answered. Your participation in organized search and rescue is a force multiplier for search and rescue authorities around the world. There is no shortage of people in peril at sea and with your help we can ensure they are safe.

•  WENDY O
• ELENA
• ATROTOS HERACLES
• FALCON TRIUMPH
• PINK SANDS
• NAVIG8 PROVIDENCE
• MTM TORTOLA
• APEX
• SUNISA NAREE
• STOLT HAGI
• NAVIGATOR NOVA
• IVER AGILE
• DENSA CROCODILE
• NEW ODYSSEY
• GENER8 MILTIADES
• BLUEBIRD

Photo credit: Fotolia

Welcome Wednesday!

Thank you for continuing to support Amver. Here's the latest list of new Amver enrollees. Besides joining Amver, you can also share your rescue success stories with us through our new online rescue report. Let us know when you perform a rescue at sea!

• CSCL INDIAN OCEAN
• JPA ELLI
• MARAN ATHENA
• SASCO ANGARA
• GENER8 NOBLE
• SNOW PLOEG
• SK SUPREME
• SK STELLAR
• EVER LUNAR
• HOLLAND PEARL

Photo credit: Fotolia

Welcome Wednesday!

We're happy to bring you the list of the latest vessels that enrolled in Amver. If you haven't joined, consider becoming part of the largest voluntary search and rescue program in the world. Your vessel may be the difference between life and death for another seafarer. Now, help us welcome the latest Amver participants.

• AFRICAN HHB
• HERUN ZHEJIANG
• WILLARD J
• JPS AFRODITI
• FEDERAL COLUMBIA
• TAKETOMI
• SBI ZUMBA
• STAR EUROPE
• SEVEN SUN
• SADAH SILVER

Photo credit: Fotolia

VIDEO AVAILABLE- Amver Participating Cruise Ship Saves 5 Migrants

The Amver participating cruise ship Carnival Glory rescued five Cuban migrants from a make shift raft approximately 50 miles southeast of Key West, Fla. on Friday, September 30, 2016.

U.S. Coast Guard rescue personnel in Key West received notification from the Panamanian flagged vessel they had encountered a make shift raft taking on water and started rescue operations. The Carnival Glory crew threw a rope and safely embarked the five Cubans, giving them a medical check up before transferring them to U.S. Coast Guard officials.



Can't see the video? Click here.

The Carnival Glory, managed by Carnival Corporation, enrolled in Amver on June 30, 2003 and has earned 13 Amver participation awards.

Video credit: Robert Dennard via YouTube

Amver Ship Assists Fishing Vessel Near Cayman Islands

The Amver participating cargo ship UBC Tampa assisted a disabled 40-foot cargo ship that had reportedly been adrift for a week approximately 115 miles southwest of Grand Cayman on Tuesday, September 20, 2016.

U.S. Coast Guard rescue authorities in Miami, Fla. received notification that a Customs and Border Protection aircraft spotted flares  coming from three people aboard a 40-foot fishing vessel. The Coast Guard issued a marine broadcast, queried the Amver system and coordinated with rescue officials in Cocesna. The 597 foot cargo ship UBC Tampa was discovered on the Amver surface picture and the crew agreed to divert and assist the fishing boat. Within two hours the Cypriot flagged ship was on the scene and assessing the situation with the fishermen.

The fishermen reported they had run out of fuel and had been adrift for a week. The UBC Tampa supplied them food, water and fuel and ensured the fishing boat was able to get underway. Once the fishing vessel was heading back to Grand Cayman, the UBC Tampa was released to continue on its journey.

The UBC Tampa, managed by United Bulk Carriers, enrolled in Amver on October 11, 2009 and has earned five Amver participation awards.

Photo credit: marinetraffic.com

Welcome Wednesday!

Twenty more vessels have joined the ranks of Amver

in the past week. Again, we're thrilled that you continue to support us. It's the dedication of crews and companies that ensure lives are saved where there are scarce Coast Guard or other rescue resources. Thank you for continuing to support this global search and rescue effort. Here are the latest members of the Amver system.

• SBI APOLLO
• DAVIKEN
• AEGEAN DREAM
• SAINTY VALIANT
• BRITISH RESOLUTION
• LA MANCHA KNUTSEN
• BRITISH SEAFARER
• KMARIN OSLO
• BALBOA
• PACIFIC A. DORODCHI
• PSU NINTH
• IVS HAYAKITA
• ECO QUEEN
• NORDCOLORADO
• FEDERAL ALSTER
• SEA AMBER
• SPRING ZEPHYR
• MG SKURA
• HAFINA LISE
• TSINGTAO

Photo credit: Fotolia

Report a Rescue at Sea

Thousands of people are rescued at sea each year and Amver participants contribute to a large portion of those rescues. But who tracks lives saved at sea? After some research we've come to the conclusion that there is no single entity tracking lives saved at sea by commercial ships. We hope to change that with our latest voluntary report.

We have developed an online tool for ship crews to report a rescue at sea. This report does not mean a crew doesn't have to communicate rescue operations with their company or Rescue Coordination Center. This is an additional tool that was developed with input from the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) to track the number of lives saved at sea. The form is very simple, low bandwidth for ease of access while at sea and completely voluntary.

Why are we asking you to complete a form after you've performed a rescue? First, its a way for Amver to actually determine effectiveness. Unless a rescue is managed by the United States Coast Guard we won't learn about it and we won't be able to credit your ship for the rescue. Secondly, there are thousands of people rescued and no single resource for documenting the rescue. With this tool we hope to generate reports for the ICS, IMO and other groups with an interest in emergencies at sea.

Help us better account for rescue operations at sea and submit a report after your next rescue.

You can access the form here.

Thank you!

Welcome Wednesday!

Another week, another batch of new Amver participants. We enjoy bringing you this feature each week and hope you enjoy seeing your ship listed. Thank you for your continued support of the Amver system and dedication to safety at sea. Now, help us welcome the latest members of the Amver system!

• SAN BEATO
• LA STELLA
• SUNRAY
• DHT PUMA
• HINRICH OLDENDORFF
• MADHA SILVER
• LITUYA

Photo credit: Fotolia

Amver Awards Ceremony in Germany

We were pleased to present Amver awards in Hamburg, Germany as part of the SMM show this month. More than 700 German ships earned Amver awards and many of the recipients came out to the U.S. Consulate to receive them. It was a wonderful evening made possible with the assistance of the American Bureau of Shipping, Applied Weather Technology and Navalex along with our partners in the U.S. Commercial Service and the Department of State.

Congratulations to all the German Amver award recipients. We look forward to recognizing even more of you in 2018!

Photo credit: USCG photo by Beverly Howard

Welcome Wednesday!

We're at SMM in Hamburg, Germany this week for an Amver awards ceremony. The Amver awards are the ultimate way for us to thank you for participating. Not every ship will be called upon to perform a rescue. Not every ship will have to search. Knowing your ship is available, however, provides a certain relief to those of us in the rescue business. 

We know you are there, prepared and willing to divert from your normal voyage in order to save a life. Thank you for providing that extra blanket of safety at sea. Now, help us welcome the latest members of the Amver safety network.

• AFFINITY V
• ASIA RUBY IV
• JAG AALOK
• YM WELCOME
• ANANGEL BRILLIANCE
• AURORA FRIGG
• EMPERY
• VADI
• BEN NEVIS
• MAKALU
• NEW GUINEA CHIEF
• OLYMPUS
• COSMAR
• PEKIN
• POYANG
• TIENTSIN
• RONADI
• ULTRA PUMA

Photo credit: Fotolia

Welcome Wednesday!

Have you enrolled in Amver yet? If not, why? Participation ensures the right ship, in the right place is sent to a maritime distress. Worried about where your vessel position information goes? Don't be worried. The U.S. Coast Guard saves it for about 45 days, using the vessel locations only for search and rescue cases. Wondering if participation will increase the burden of the bridge crew? Sending an Amver sail plan or routine position report takes less than five minutes. There really isn't a reason you shouldn't participate and with partnerships with several automated vessel tracking companies participation is easier than ever. 

Help us welcome the latest members of the Amver safety network.

• BBC MAHAWELI
• SCI RATNA
• GH SEABIRD
• GENER8 CHIOTIS
• MARI BOYLE
• NAVIGATOR ECLIPSE
• FRONT DUKE
• MG MERCURY
• STI PONTIAC
• MARAN GAS PERICLES
• OOCL EGYPT
• VAERDAL
• SANTORINI
• SPRING PROGRESS
• CIELO DI HANOI
• MAGIC SEAS

Photo credit: Fotolia

Welcome Wednesday!

Another 14 ships enrolled in Amver this week. If you're not participating in Amver we would appreciate it if you'd consider the value you would provide other seafarers, the value you can provide your own company in reduced time searching or diverting and the overall value you would provide the world. It doesn't take long to enroll. Join Amver today and see your vessel name listed the following week. It's our way of saying thank you!

• YARA AESA
• HUBERTUS OLDENDORFF
• TENACITY IV
• MG KRONOS
• HARMONY OF THE SEAS
• HOEGH TRIGGER
• KWK EXCELSUS
• ISLA DE BIOKO
• SEVEN SEAS EXPLORER
• OCEAN ENTERPRISE
• YANKUL SILVER
• LANDBRIDGE FORTUNE
• SPAR PAVO
• JS MISSISSIPPI

Photo credit: Fotolia

Welcome Wednesday!

Each week we take pride in bringing you the list of the latest ships joining Amver. This week, while many of you are on holiday or enjoying the dog days of summer, is no different. Eleven more vessels have enrolled and agreed to ensure no call for help goes unanswered. Help us welcome these new Amver participants.

• MARAN GAS AMPHILOLIS
• JIA YUAN
• GENER8 PERSEUS
• SEAVIGOUR
• EUGENIE
• MG COURAGE
• BORA BORA
• NORTHERN CONFIDENCE
• SAVITA NAREE
• MARIE C
• FRIJSENBORG

Photo credit: Fotolia

2 Amver Ships Save 46 From Sinking Fishing Boat - VIDEO AVAILABLE

Two Amver ships rescued 46 crew members from a sinking fishing boat approximately 690 miles west of Dutch Harbor, Alaska on Tuesday, July 26, 2016.

U.S. Coast Guard 17th District rescue personnel received an electronic position indicating radio beacon (EPIRB) alert from the fishing vessel Alaska Juris on Tuesday and confirmed the crew was preparing to abandon ship.

Coast Guard rescue authorities sent a C-130 aircraft, diverted the Coast Guard Cutter Midgett and used the Amver system to alert several participating commercial ships in the area of the distress. The German-flagged container ship VIENNA EXPRESS and Norwegian-flagged bulk carrier SPAR CANIS agreed to divert and assist the stricken fishing boat. Both Amver ships arrived on scene and successfully rescued all 46 crew members.

There were no reports of injuries and the survivors are being taken to Adak, Alaska where they will be met by medical personnel. A salvage operation has been initiated for the fishing boat.

The VIENNA EXPRESS, managed by Hapag-Lloyd AG, enrolled in Amver on March 7, 2010 and has earned six Amver participation awards while the SPAR CANIS, managed by Spar Shipping, enrolled on March 29, 2006 and has earned four Amver participation awards.

 Video of the rescue is available here.

Video credit: USCG public affairs

Welcome Wednesday!

We're always thankful of the participation from seafarers in the Amver program. Despite advances in technology, decreases in crew size and other demands on seafarers you continue to enroll, continue to send Amver reports and you continue to save lives. If you are not part of the Amver network, consider joining the ranks of those already helping ensure no call for help goes unanswered.

• SILVER HESSA
• MAERSK GUAYAQUIL
• TRF KRISTIANSAND
• DACC ADRIATICO
• BULK BOLIVIA
• PILATUS VENTURE
• BULK AQUILA
• GENEVA STAR
• IONIC ANASSA
• KANDA LOGGER
• GRECO LIBERO
• SS NUJOMA
• MARITIME MERIDIAN
• STARLING
• UNI HARMONY

Photo credit: Fotolia

Welcome Wednesday

Every day more than 7,000 Amver ships are available for search and rescue around the world. There are 14 more available, having enrolled in Amver this week. We welcome them to the Amver safety network and encourage you to join as well. Help us welcome these latest members.

• HANGZHOU
• BRAVE TERN
• HENRIETTE OLDERDORFF
• ALIKI PERROTIS
• JO ALM
• RB LISA
• AURORA FREYJA
• CARTIGNY
• PACIFIC QINGDAO
• ATLANTIC LIGHT
• SUNNY LAVENDER
• MARAN ARTEMIS
• SUNSTAR
• ELIAS TSAKOS

Photo Credit: Fotolia

Welcome Wednesday!

Who joined Amver this week? Twenty one new additions to the Amver safety network. These crews and companies recognize the value of being part of something greater, something above and beyond what's required. These volunteers are the backbone of the Amver system and are responsible for saving a life a day. Thank you! Help us welcome these new Amver participants.

• HOEGH TRAPPER
• GENER8 SUCCESS
• ECO LEADER
• ELSA S
• RIKKE
• TRADE QUEST
• SILVER HEBA
• GINKGO ARROW
• AS SAVONIA
• STADT JENA
• AMSTEL LION
• AS FLORIANA
• AS FATIMA
• AS ROMINA
• AS ROSALIA
• AS RICCARDA
• AS RAGNA
• MINERVA LEO
• MINERVA TYCHI
• GEN NO. 1
• LEO GREEN

Photo credit: Fotolia

Welcome Wednesday!

If you've ever wondered why Amver continues to be important you need look no further than the recent case of 19 fishermen rescued by the Amver bulk carrier K. Coral. The Amver ship was at the right place, at the right time and not only rescued the fishermen, but embarked an Air Force medical crew that arrived by parachute. You can be part of this amazing system. Enroll in Amver today.
Help us welcome the latest members of the Amver safety network.

• PLVS VLTRA
• ANNA G.
• BOCHEM BRUSSELS
• MG EARTH
• CMA CGM RIO GRANDE
• RB EDEN
• AEGEAN MARATHON
• POSH HUSKY
• MOL BEYOND

Amver crew recognized for heroic rescue

Amver director Benjamin Strong, along with U.S. Coast Guard representatives from Sector Long Island Sound and Boston, Mass. recognized the crew of the M/V K. Coral in New Haven, Conn. for rescuing 19 fishermen 900 miles southeast of Bermuda.

"In the wake of the International Maritime Organization's Day of the Seafarer, which was themed At Sea For All, it is only fitting that we recognize the brave seafarers of the K. Coral for saving 19 fishermen," Strong mentioned while presenting a certificate of appreciation. "These crewmen have set the example and should be proud of their accomplishments," he added.

The K. Coral is managed by SK Shipping of Korea and enrolled in Amver on September 26, 2011. 

Welcome Wednesday!

The oceans remain dangerous. Just yesterday Amver ships raced to save the lives of 19 fishermen. If not for the dedicated volunteer in Amver those 19 might have died. Thank you for continuing to support the Amver system, to enroll in Amver and to ensure no call for help go unanswered.

• ASIA TRITA 1605
• YM WIDTH
• CF DIAMOND
• BRITOIL 49
• TAHITI NUI III
• ORENTAL JUBILEE
• LACERTA
• MATUKU
• ALULAQ
• EQUINOX MELIDA

Photo credit: Fotolia

Amver Ship Saves 19 Fishermen In Atlantic Rescue

The Amver participating bulk carrier K. Coral rescued 19 fishermen after they abandoned their burning vessel approximately 900 miles southeast of Bermuda on Tuesday, June 21, 2016. 

The Panamanian flagged ship notified rescue personnel in Bermuda that the first officer spotted a large cloud of black smoke approximately four miles from their position. The master of the K. Coral altered course and found a fishing vessel on fire with people in the water.

Bermuda rescue personnel notified the U.S. Coast Guard who activated the Amver system and diverted two additional ships, the Cherry Point and the Jean LD, that assisted in the search for people in the water. 

"While we were hoisting the 17 people onto our ship two people on a makeshift raft got separated from the group and drifted away," said the captain of the K. Coral. The K. Coral and Cherry Point continued searching for the two remaining survivors for six hours. 

Lookouts on the K. Coral spotted the last two people and hoisted the first survivor to safety but lost sight of the second person in the darkness and heavy rain. "The final survivor is clinging to some debris so we know he's alive and we won't give up!" the captain of the K. Coral reported to Coast Guard authorities. "Search and rescue operations still going on at this time," the captain said, "we are having a hard time recovering the last person due to weather conditions. Wind still coming from the east but increasing to Force 5 with passing rain showers."

Two hours later the last survivor, the master of the fishing vessel, was aboard the K. Coral. The crew of the K. Coral reported two of the survivors suffered third degree burns and were being treated in the ship's hospital. The K. Coral is sailing towards Bermuda so a helicopter can meet the ship and evacuate the injured survivors.

The K. Coral, managed by SK Shipping Company Ltd, enrolled in Amver on September 26, 2011 and has earned two Amver participation awards. The Cherry Point, managed by Pacific Basin Shipping of Hong Kong, enrolled in Amver on July 18, 2003 and has earned one Amver participation award and the Jean LD, managed by Louis Dreyfus Armateurs SAS of France, enrolled in Amver on June 30, 2005 and earned ten Amver participation awards. 

Welcome Wednesday!

There is no shortage of heroism at sea. Seafarers routinely risk their lives to save others. Whether it is a migrant searching for a better life, a yachtsman adrift in a life raft or another seafarer abandoning a ship in distress, our Amver participants stand ready to save lives. Most of these amazing stories go untold. So take a moment and consider enrolling in Amver and join the network of silent life savers.

Help us welcome the latest members of the Amver safety network.

• ENSCO 8506
• AISA TIRTA 1201
• SILVER MUNA
• MARLIN AQUAMARINE
• GH SEABISQUIT
• NYK BLUE JAY
• MARITIME VOYAGER
• AL QATTARA
• LOCH NESS
• GENER8 CONSTANTINE
• ANANGEL EXCELLENCE
• SINNDAR
• SANSOVINO
• MARATHA PRIMIER

Photo credit: Fotolia

Welcome Wednesday!

Help us welcome the latest ships to enroll in the Amver system. Why should we welcome them? Because they've taken an extra step, an additional step towards safety. They have said they will do just a little bit more to assist mariners in distress. We are grateful for the extra effort displayed by these crews. You can be a part of this as well, enroll in Amver today.

• CAPE OWL
• FEDERAL CHURCHILL
• DOLE CARIBBEAN
• SBI HERA
• ANANGEL VICTORY
• PACIFIC WEIHAI
• FAIRWAY
• BRITISH RESOURCE
• HERMANN OLDENDORFF
• AFRICAN MACAW
• CONTAMINES

Photo credit: Fotolia

Welcome Wednesday!

It's always encouraging to see what ships enroll in Amver. We enjoy sharing this with you and hope you enjoy reading who has taken the extra step to ensure no call for help goes unanswered at sea. This week has four tankers, two container ships, four bulk carriers and two tugs joining.  Help us welcome these latest members of the Amver team.

• STENA IMAGINATION
• D&K ABDUL RAZZAK KHALID ZA
• FRONT JAGUAR
• YM WINDOW
• STAR PISCES
• ALPHA OPTIMISM
• MAERSK STADELHORN
• DENISE FOSS
• VOS THALIA
• MINERAL YARDEN
• YPAPANTI
• GRAND MARAIS

Photo credit: Fotolia 

U.S. Amver Awards Ceremony and National Maritime Day

On Monday, May 23, 2016 Amver celebrated National Maritime Day in the United States. As part of the day-long celebration the North American Marine Environment Protection Association hosted a Safety at Sea seminar at the National Press Club. U.S. Coast Guard Rear Admiral Paul Thomas shared the latest on regulatory hot topics while panelists from the cruise industry, maritime law and maritime ministries tackled topics related to seafarer safety and welfare. U.S. Maritime Administrator Paul "Chip" Jaenichen gave the National Maritime Day address and shared his vision for the future.

After the seminar more than 70 people gathered to celebrate the 922 U.S. managed ships that earned Amver awards in 2015. U.S. Coast Guard Commandant, Admiral Paul Zukunft spoke about the traditions of mariner helping mariner, a code that dates back to Rhodian Sea Laws of the Seventh Century. Admiral Zukunft thanked and congratulated the award recipients and encouraged them to continue to participate in Amver, especially in austere areas such as the Arctic where search and rescue resources are scarce.

The event ended with the unmistakable humor of Mr. Clay Maitland inviting Amver Director Benjamin Strong up to the podium to close the evening with an uncanny impersonation of Mr. Maitland.

Stay tuned for information about next year's Amver Awards and National Maritime Day program.

Photo: USCG photo by PA2 Patrick Kelley

Welcome Wednesday!

Are you a member of Amver? If not joining is easy. There are several reasons to join, the least of which is you best position your vessel to help in the event of a maritime emergency. Amver is a piece, a tool in the search and rescue professionals toolbox. Amver participants help fill in the gaps of other vessel tracking and reporting systems and provides a clear picture of what is near a distress location. Help fill in the gaps and enroll today. Here are the latest members of the Amver safety network.

• HALANI 6
• OTTOMANA
• KUMUL
• ANANGEL HORIZON
• ANANGEL VENTURE
• BRITISH NAVIGATOR
• WESTERN TITAN
• WOODSIDE CHANEY
• MARAN GAS AGAMENON
• STH KURE
• PUGNAX
• MARITIME EQUATOR
• TESS

Photo credit: Fotolia

Welcome Wednesday!

Once again we're happy to share with you the latest list of ships enrolling in Amver. These are seafarers who go above and beyond the standard and voluntarily make themselves available for search and rescue. Welcome!

• WAIMEA
• AFRICAN MAGNOLIA
• PACIFIC TREASURES
• CODRI 11
• SAVITREE NAREE
• ULTRA INNOVATION
• AFRICAN LEOPARD
• BW TUCANA
• TARANKI SUN
• DANA CRUZ
• YM WORLD
• STAR CRIMSON

Photo credit: Fotolia

Welcome Wednesday!

Have you considered joining Amver but don't want the hassle of the extra reporting? Did you know several commercial vessel tracking and fleet management companies can automate your Amver reports? That means you only need to send a sail plan. Send us a note if you want to know more about these options. In the meantime help us welcome the latest members of the Amver safety network.

• FRONT COUGAR
• CONQUISTADOR
• EQUINOX AKRA
• HALAT TIDE
• SBI ZEUS
• SPAR INDUS
• ULTRA AQILITY
• FEDERAL CHAMPLAIN
• OLYMPIC HARMONY
• MARAN APOLLO
• MOUNTPARK
• LINDE-G
• BRITISH RELIANCE
• AFRICAN TURACO

Photo credit: Fotolia

Welcome Wednesday!

The need for rescue at sea will never go away. While search and rescue capabilities around the world continue to improve, the need for a helping hand far out at sea continues. Who will be there to save you during an emergency? A commercial ship participating in the Amver system will be there. Help us welcome the latest members of this unique safety network.

• SKYROS
• KONINGSDAM
• STI ACTION
• SEAWORK 121
• ALICE
• BAVANG
• OLYMPIC HOPE
• MCKENNY TIDE
• ATLANTIC MANZANILLO

Photo credit: Fotolia

Amver Ship Rescued 41 Migrants in the Mediterranean

The M/V Eastern Confidence seen under it's previous name Sat Nunki

The 41 migrants rescued from a boat that capsized in the Mediterranean were saved by the Amver participating bulk carrier Eastern Confidence on April 16, 2016.

The Filipino flagged ship was alerted to the distress by the Greek Coast Guard and steamed to the distress location. The BBC reported the migrants were on a voyage from Libya to Europe when they were transferred from one boat to another more overcrowded boat. At some point the wooden boat capsized killing at least 500 people.

The 554-foot cargo ship embarked the survivors, mostly from Africa, and disembarked them in Greece. The BBC, citing the ship's log, reported the migrants initially refused to leave the cargo ship but eventually left and were met by Greek officials.

The Eastern Confidence, managed by Hellas Marine Services of Greece, enrolled in Amver on May 26, 2009 and has earned one Amver participation award.

You can learn more about Amver here.

Photo credit: marinetraffic.com

Welcome Wednesday!

There's nothing we enjoy more than sharing your accomplishments. Those accomplishments include joining Amver and this week we have another 16 ships enrolled. Help us welcome them to the Amver safety network.

• INTERLINK VERACITY
• MAHADAH SILVER
• HYUNDAI MIPPO 2550
• MOL BENEFACTOR
• CORATO
• NADESHIKO
• RECCO
• RED DAISY
• FRONT LEOPARD
• JAG PUNIT
• BERGE ZUGSPITZE
• STAVF JORD
• STAR PLOEG
• NILEDUTCH ROTTERDAM
• FEDERAL TAKASE
• PERMIAN LADY

Photo credit: Fotolia

Welcome Wednesday!

We're proud to bring this list to you each week. If you're new to Amver this is a weekly feature where we list the new ships that joined Amver in the last week. If your ship isn't participating feel free to enroll today. Now help us welcome the latest ships to join the Amver network.

• HH NORTH
• NAVIOS VENUS
• NAVIG8 SANCTITY
• GENER8 HERA
• ULTRA CRIMSON
• ELISABETH OLDENDORFF
• HYUNDAI SAMHO S768
• TIZIANA
• BRITISH RENOWN
• GASLOG GREECE
• ALEX
• LEGEND PROSPERITY
• AFRICAN RAPTOR
• CRIMSON KINGDOM
• ERNA OLDENDORFF

Photo credit: Fotolia

Welcome Wednesday!

We're happy to share the name of the latest ships to join Amver this week. As Amver awards ceremony season starts we'll be hosting events in  Finland, Washington, DC and around the world. Stay tuned for posts about a ceremony near you! Now help us welcome the latest members of the Amver safety network.

• MATSYA VARSHINI
• CAP SAN ARTEMISSIO
• NAVIGATOR COPERNICO
• SILVER ENTALINA
• TORM TROILUS
• AURORA NJORD
• SOFIE VICTORY
• VAYADA NAREE
• GENEVA VENTURE
• TRAMMO STANTON
• NORD SEAL

Photo credit: Fotolia

Amver Participating Research Vessel Evacuates French Teenager

The Amver participating research vessel Atlantis rescued a French teenager from a sailboat 345 miles north of Puerto Rico after the boy suffered from severe sea sickness on Sunday, March 27, 2016.

U.S. Coast Guard rescue personnel in San Juan, Puerto Rico received notification from French rescue authorities that a 70-foot sailboat was requesting assistance getting the boy medical assistance. The 272-foot research vessel Atlantis was only 60 miles from the sailboat and agreed to divert and embark the young sailor.

The crew of the Atlantis arrived on scene, launched a small boat and embarked the ill teen and an adult. The two sailors will remain aboard the Atlantis until it arrives in Charleston, SC on April 2.

The research vessel Atlantis, managed by Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, enrolled in Amver on May 28, 1997 and has earned five Amver participation awards.

Photo credit: crew of the research vessel Atlantis

Save the date! National Maritime Day and Amver awards.

Mark your calendar for May 23, 2016! Join us to celebrate National Maritime Day and the presentation of the United States Amver awards! U.S. Coast Guard Commandant, Admiral Paul Zukunft will be the keynote speaker at the Amver awards celebration.

The day starts with a safety at sea seminar and participants include U.S. Maritime Administrator Paul "Chip" Jaenichen as well as other influential shipping personalities. The event takes place at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C.

Come help us celebrate National Maritime Day and recognize the 922 U.S. managed ships earning Amver awards!

Photo credit: USCG photo

Welcome Wednesday!

We're in Connecticut at the Shipping 2016 exhibition recruiting more ships and sharing the Amver story. While we are away, help us welcome the latest members of the Amver safety network.

• LIMA 1
• CMA CGM JACQUES JUNIOR
• SHAHRASTANI
• DRAFTDODGER
• DHT LION
• GO GLIESE
• CIELO D'ERUOPA
• SOC ENDEAVOUR
• MARIA D
• AL NEFUD
• HYUNDAI MIPO 2565

Photo credit: Fotolia

Come Visit Amver at CMA 2016

The Amver team will be at the Connecticut Maritime Association Shipping 2016 conference and exhibition in Stamford, Conn. March 21 to the 23rd. We look forward to connecting with our old friends and meeting some new ones as well. Stop by and see us at booth G-104!

Photo credit: Fotolia

Amver Participant Disney Fantasy Saves 10 Migrants

The Amver participating cruise ship Disney Fantasy rescued ten Cuban migrants from a damaged homemade raft 40 miles southeast of Long Sound Point, Key Largo, Fla. on Thursday, March 10, 2016.

The Disney Fantasy was on its way back to Florida from a seven day cruise when the crew spotted the Cuban migrants waving a white flag from an unseaworthy vessel. The captain of the ship immediately launched a rescue operation and the ten migrants were safely brought aboard the cruise ship. The rescue crew was given a heroes welcome when they returned to the ship.

U.S. Coast Guard rescue personnel in Key West, Fla. were notified by the ship and the Coast Guard Cutter Margaret Norvell met the Bahamian flagged cruise ship so the migrants could be transferred for processing. None of the Cubans were injured in the rescue or transfer process.

You can see the rescue and transfer in the video below.



Can't see the video? Click here.

The Disney Fantasy enrolled in Amver on February 16, 2012 and has earned four Amver participation awards.

Video credit: Zac Bohl via YouTube

Welcome Wednesday!

Who joined Amver this week? Eight more ships and the crews that dedicated them to a higher standard of safety. By enrolling in Amver these crews have made a statement, a statement in support of each other and those that go to sea. You can be a part of this. You can participate in this movement. You can help ensure no call for help goes unanswered. Join Amver today. Now help us welcome the latest members of the Amver safety network.

• HOEGH TRACER
• SILVIO
• AFRICAN FINFOOT
• NEW GLOBE
• HOIHOW
• NAVIG8 SYMPHONY
• CARAVELLE
• WESTERN OWENDO

Photo credit: Fotolia

Welcome Wednesday!

We enjoy bringing you the list of who joined Amver. Seeing these new ships enroll in Amver, or existing ships reaffirming their commitment to maritime safety is certainly a bright light in shipping. If you've been on the fence, unsure if you should join consider this. An Amver ship saves one life every day. Your crews are already underway, committed to safety and well trained in rescue procedures. Take the next step and join Amver. 

Your participation ensures any rescue at sea is better coordinated and rescue resources are not wasted. Your time, your crews and your money are put to good use with Amver. Help us welcome the latest Amver members.

• MARIGO P
• STI BLACK HAWK
• UNITY FORCE
• TOMINI SYMPHONY
• AMSTEL STORK
• COASTAL STANDARD
• GAS LEGACY
• HELLAS SPARTA
• GUARDIAN 2
• HARMONY G
• SBI REGGAE

Photo credit: Fotolia

Welcome Wednesday!

Look around the maritime community. You'll see a group of professionals dedicated to safely delivering goods by sea. Part of that community are the ships that volunteer to be part of the voluntary global search and rescue system, Amver. Enrolling in Amver matters. It matters because it demonstrates an extra effort, an statement in favor of safety at sea. 

We hear you and we thank you for making that statement. Help us welcome the latest members of the Amver family.

• FRONT CHEETAH
• CHALLENGER
• ADA
• MANGAN TRADER III
• STENAWECO IMPULSE
• KNOKKE
• DOLE ATLANTIC
• MARCELLUS LADY
• SECRETO
• NAVIG8 EXCEL
• FEDERAL CEDAR
• BOX EXPRESS
• FUAT BEY

Photo credit: Fotolia

Welcome Wednesday!

Spring is almost here. A time of growth and renewal. Spring is the perfect time to audit your fleets participation in Amver and renew your commitment to safety at sea. If you have questions about your vessel's participation, send us an email. In the meantime, help us welcome the latest members of the Amver safety network.

• VASILIY GOLOVNIN
• OOCL CHONGQING
• AFRICAN KALMIA
• BRITISH RESPECT
• BOSPORUS
• HIGH TRUST
• METSOVO
• SBI HERMES
• SBI BOLERO
• NAVIG8 ARAGONITE
• TRF MEMPHIS
• ULTRA INTEGRITY
• DEEPWATER PROTEUS
• TRADE RESOURCE

Photo credit: Fotolia

Welcome Wednesday!

Since 1958 we've been publishing a list of vessels who joined Amver. We continue to recognize these ships because the crews and companies have taken an extra step supporting safety at sea. That extra step deserves recognition.

We'd be honored to list your ship as well. Enroll today.

• AFRICAN OWL
• MARLIN ADVENTURINE
• ALPHA HONESTY
• MTM SAVANNAH
• INDIAN LIGHT
• HANSA AUSTRALIA
• CLIPPER VENUS
• SENTINEL
• BLUE MARLIN
• SAGARIKA
• HUT BAY
• SCI MUKTA
• ANDROMEDA
• TSUNEISHI CEBU SC-235
• SEALADY

Photo credit: Fotolia