Tanker Kiwala detained until deficiencies are resolved

Tanker Kiwala detained until deficiencies are resolved
Photo: Transpordiamet

“Throughout yesterday, inspectors from the Transport Administration carried out an extended inspection of the vessel and identified several significant deficiencies. We cannot allow the vessel to continue its voyage, as maritime and environmental safety cannot be guaranteed,” said Kristjan Truu, Director of the Maritime Department at the Transport Administration.

Out of the 40 deficiencies, 29 were significant and constituted the basis for detaining the vessel. The majority of these — 23 in total — were related to documentation, while the remaining deficiencies concerned the implementation of the ship’s safety management system, crew preparedness for various shipboard emergencies, and technical issues.

“One major concern is the suspicion that the vessel has no flag state, meaning it does not fall under the jurisdiction of any national legislation. Estonia exercised its rights and international obligations to inspect a stateless vessel,” Truu explained. “We are in constant contact with the shipowner’s representative and are hopeful for a swift resolution.”

The vessel is currently anchored in Muuga Bay and is under surveillance by the Estonian Navy. Once both documentation and technical issues are resolved, the Transport Administration will grant permission for the vessel to resume its journey following a reinspection.