On August 8, 2025, the Vietnam Maritime Authority executed a successful rescue operation for 20 crew members stranded on the Vietnamese-flagged tanker GT Unity, which caught fire due to an electrical malfunction. The tanker, built in 2008 with a deadweight tonnage (DWT) of 7,631, was transporting 3,872 tonnes of crude oil from Malaysia to the Vietnamese port of Dung Quat. At the time of the incident, the vessel was located approximately 104 nautical miles southwest of Con Dao and 191 nautical miles from Vang Tau Cape in southern Vietnam.
The emergency unfolded when the Vietnamese Maritime Authority was alerted to the fire. Prompt action was taken, mobilizing resources to respond to the crisis. The nearby container ship Androusa, owned by Costamare and en route from China to Singapore, received a request for assistance. Upon arrival, Androusa’s crew reported that 16 of the 20 crew members had already evacuated the burning tanker.
In an impressive display of maritime cooperation, the Androusa successfully rescued all 20 crew members, ensuring their safety despite escalating danger. Meanwhile, a patrol boat from Vung Tau was heading toward the site to provide further assistance and to evacuate any injured personnel. It was noted that one crew member was in critical condition, heightening the urgency of the rescue effort.
Le Do Muoi, the director of the Vietnam Maritime and Waterways Administration, praised the crew of the Androusa for their swift and responsible actions during the incident. A certificate of merit is set to be awarded to the captain and crew members in recognition of their bravery and professionalism.
In addition to overseeing the rescue operation, the Vietnamese authorities instructed the owner of the GT Unity to arrange for additional vessels to extinguish the fire and manage the salvaging of the distressed tanker, which posed further risks due to its cargo of crude oil.
The incident underlines the importance of maritime safety and cooperation during emergencies at sea, showcasing the rapid response capabilities of the Vietnam Maritime Authority and the commendable actions of nearby vessels in ensuring crew safety.
This event serves as a reminder of the risks associated with maritime operations, and it emphasizes the need for ongoing training and preparedness among maritime professionals. The incident was also a catalyst for promoting educational resources among seafarers, such as eBooks and online courses that focus on safety training, navigation, and emergency procedures, thus aiming to prevent such accidents in the future.
In conclusion, the effective coordination and swift action by all involved showcased the critical nature of maritime collaboration in emergencies, reflecting a well-prepared and responsive maritime operational environment in Vietnam.
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