Fire-damaged Tanker Granted Bahrain Entry

Bahrain's General Organisation of Sea Ports (GOP) grant Liberian-flagged 'Stolt Valor' permission to enter port for ASRY to carry out repairs

The "Stolt Valor" caught fire on 15th March 2012 north of Bahrain. The fire, which broke out on board the vessel was completely extinguished by 22nd March, while the removal of all pollutants - both chemical cargo and fuel - was completed by the 29th of April, with no spillage during the transfer. The vessel is currently in stable condition at anchor with minimum stresses applied.

The Kingdom of Bahrain was identified as the best destination for the Stolt Valor due to the technical capabilities of both the GOP as a regulator and supervisor of maritime safety and environmental matters, and of ASRY's capabilities and expertise as a ship repair yard. Additionally, the proximity of the ship to Bahrain's territorial waters simplified the decision of destination.

A key factor in approving the vessel for transit to ASRY was the compliance of the vessel's owner with a number of stringent requirements, including: performing offshore lighterage of all heavy fuel oil, diesel, lube oil and all cargo remaining on board; gas freeing for the entire vessel including all tanks; structural assessment report for the intended tow-voyage to the repair yard; confirmation from ASRY for receiving vessel directly to the dry dock; approval to use an inward route to ASRY outside the main channel; and full liability for any unforeseen eventualities.