photo credit: https://shippingtelegraph.com/dry-bulk-shipping-news/south-korean-bulker-rescues-23-crew-members-in-distress-in-indian-ocean/
Rescue at Sea: All Crew Safely Rescued from Flooded Bulk Carrier Run Fu 3 by Korean Bulker Maple Harbour
At around 08:15 local time, the ship’s master determined to abandon ship. All 23 crew members, comprising 21 Vietnamese nationals and two from Myanmar, boarded two life rafts and issued a distress call. The distress signal was received at 02:45 a.m. by the nearby South Korean-flagged Supramax bulker Maple Harbour, managed by C Transport Maritime. The crew of Maple Harbour immediately altered course and reached the life rafts by 05:30 a.m.. All 23 seafarers were safely recovered by 13:20 local time, and none sustained injuries.
After the rescue, the crew members were provided with food, water, and shelter aboard Maple Harbour. The vessel then proceeded to Port Louis, Mauritius, where arrangements are being made for the crew’s disembarkation.
This incident highlights notable aspects of maritime safety and international cooperation. It demonstrates the professionalism and readiness of merchant vessel crews in executing rapid rescue operations on the high seas. The Run Fu 3 crew’s disciplined evacuation and the swift action by Maple Harbour exemplify global solidarity at sea, under international maritime law and tradition.
Furthermore, the incident brings attention to the risks associated with aging vessels. Run Fu 3, now over 28 years old, underscores the importance of diligent maintenance and monitoring of older tonnage operating on demanding global routes. Local maritime authorities, including South Korea’s Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries, praised the Maple Harbour crew for their professional seamanship and quick coordination, describing it as "an example of cooperation and consideration across borders in the common space of humanity called the ocean".
The rescued seafarers are reported in good health and safe aboard the Korean vessel. As Maple Harbour docks in Mauritius, disembarkation and crew repatriation are being organized in collaboration with the operators of Run Fu 3. This rescue operation stands as a powerful human-interest story. It underscores the vital role of merchant mariners in safeguarding lives at sea and reinforces ongoing efforts to enhance maritime safety standards, ensure efficient emergency response, and promote international cooperation.
