The MSC bulker Anastasia, which was stuck off China since September, is now heading to Japan for a crew change after many months of failed attempts.
As MSC stated, it has effectively resolved the matter and avoided a humanitarian crisis onboard the bulker.
As it specifically said, MSC ”having exhausted all possible options for crew change” including efforts at a diplomatic level between Indian and Chinese authorities, was left with no other option but to advise the master of Anastasia to make a short hop to Japan on 4 February.
The Anastasia was stranded off Northeast China for months due to a ban on Australian coal imports by China. According to MSC, the charterer and sub-charterers were caught in the political and trade uncertainty.
What is more, MSC tried to convince the chartering and commercial parties in control of the vessel and its cargo to allow a crew change in various locations before it arrived in Chinese waters. ttempts were also made while the ship was at anchorage outside the Chinese Port of Caofeidian, although COVID-19 protective measures closed off many options in China which would normally have been available.
MSC chose Japan, considering it the quickest and most efficient way to provide the necessary relief for the crew. The 18 seafarers will disembark the vessel in Japan on 10 February.
Chinese authorities had previously given the green light for crew change for the stranded Indian sailors.
In early 2021, India called China to help the 39 crew of the stranded cargo vessels MV Jag Anand and MV Anastasia. The ships have been stuck for months near Jingtang and Caofeidian ports.
To assist the stranded seafarers, India called China to help the 39 crew of the stranded cargo vessels MV Jag Anand and MV Anastasia back in January, with the former explaining that they had noted the statements of the Chinese side expressing their willingness to extend their assistance in this matter.