Article Armed pirates hijacked a Norwegian flagged bulk carrier off southern Nigeria on Wednesday, roughing up the crew but releasing them after two hours, officials said. The suspected pirates climbed aboard the ship in Port Harcourt, Nigeria, early Wednesday morning, Norwegian Rescue Service spokesman Stein Solberg said in Oslo. They “pushed around” the 22-member crew, [...]

SNAME Article High prices for scrap steel are making it more and more favorable for MARAD to dispose of its aging fleet.  MARAD has recently sold the GULF MERCHANT, KALAMAZOO, NITRO, TRUCKEE, and THE RIGEL to scrap companies.  This also comes as MARAD announces the commencement of environmental impact studies at its reserve fleet locations.

The Greek bulk carrier ATLANTIC EAGLE reportedly struck an unknown submerged object near Albany in Australia, suffering damage to its steering system. No pollution has been reported, and it appears the ship was able to proceed to anchor to investigate the damage.

A surprising article appeared in the NY Times about the old WWII Navy Destroyer JOHN RODGERS, one of the 175 Fletcher class destroyers.  Apparently the JOHN RODGERS is rusting away in a small Mexican port while an businessman is trying to arrange for its return to the U.S.  The former U.S. destroyer was transferred to  [...]

USCG TWIC Compliance Groupings The Coast Guard’s published TWIC compliance dates, organized by Captain of the Port regions.  Depending on where you work, you may need to get your card sooner rather than later.