Internal News | 03.08.2026
On July 6, representatives from Odfjell and the Norwegian Embassy in Singapore visited Bow Saga to recognize the crew following their successful exit from the Middle East after spending several months in the region, highlighting their professionalism and resilience throughout the period.
The Norwegian ambassador to Singapore was joined by a team of colleagues from Ship Management and Odfjell Tankers, from Bergen, Manila and Singapore. Against the backdrop of the past five months’ challenging circumstances, it was a visit that moved everyone, including ambassador Leif Trana:
“Today is more than the return of a ship – it’s about recognizing the people who make global shipping possible.”
At the gangway, the visitors were warmly received before being escorted to the bridge, where Bow Saga’s Captain Ronald B. Gabriel and the crew had thoughtfully prepared refreshments.
The ship itself made a striking impression – spotless throughout, reflecting the care the crew gives to our 19-year-old chemical tanker every day.
The captain and crew shared their experiences, painting a vivid picture of life on board during an uncertain, unprecedented period.
One moment stood out in particular: When asked how the crew felt upon receiving the news that it was time to sail through the Strait of Hormuz, they explained that confidence stemmed directly from leadership on board. They followed the guidance of the Maritime Liaison Officers and, above all, the Captain.
“We did not see any hesitation from the Captain, so we all felt confident,” they shared.
That calm, decisive leadership was reinforced by strong support from shore. The crew highlighted how quickly the organization responded when assistance was needed. During one incident involving an unidentified vessel, help was mobilized in less than 30 minutes, including helicopter support to assess the situation.
Equally important was the consistent follow-up from shore teams and the trust placed in the crew.
“There was never any compromise on safety,” they emphasized – a principle that remained constant from day one.
Although Harald Fotland was unable to attend due to prior commitments in Japan, CTO Torger Trige extended a warm greeting on his behalf:
“Behind this achievement are 25 dedicated seafarers who navigated months of uncertainty with professionalism and resilience, always putting safety first. They endured these difficult circumstances with flying colors. Their attitude and morale have repeatedly filled me with pride and admiration, and we are deeply impressed and thankful to Captain Ronald B. Gabriel and his crew for the way they have handled this unpredictable situation – they represent the very best of Odfjell” - CEO Harald Fotland.
Harald also highlighted the broader effort behind the scenes:
“The positive outcome is also the result of extraordinary team efforts by a large group of colleagues in Manila, Dubai, and Bergen. Our team’s collective contributions ensured that Bow Saga remained safe and operational throughout. I thank everyone involved for their contributions!”
Torger Trige also commended the crew’s professionalism, morale and attitude, describing the successful exit from the Gulf in June as a great relief for the entire organization.
“It was a big relief to see you safely out of the Gulf. Not only for your families and yourselves, but also for every colleague at sea and ashore.” Ambassador Trana added: “Just to hear the stories of how you collaborated makes me proud to be here.”
After the visit, the ambassador also shared a heartfelt reflection on the human dimension of the experience:
“Prolonged uncertainty at sea places an immense burden on those on board. Extended separation from families, the psychological strain of operating in a high-risk environment, and the challenge of sustaining morale over months of disruption are realities that often receive too little attention. Yet throughout the ordeal, the crew demonstrated remarkable resilience, professionalism, and commitment to one another."
"The safe arrival of Bow Saga in Singapore reflects a truly collective effort. Across the maritime sector, shipowners, industry associations, authorities and international partners worked relentlessly to help trapped vessels and their crews safely through the crisis. The most deserving of recognition are the ship's captain, officers, crew and Odfjell's shore-based management, whose calm leadership, sound decision-making, and unwavering focus on safety, operational excellence and crew welfare ensured the vessel remained safe and mission-ready.”
To commemorate the occasion, each crew member received a specially prepared Odfjell loot bag containing commemorative items – small tokens carrying significant meaning.
Addressing the crew, OPI General Manager Agnes Enesio said:
“The commemorative gifts are more than keepsakes; they symbolize a remarkable chapter of courage, unity, and professionalism. May they always remind you of what you accomplished together and how proud we are of each and every one of you. Working together with you and being able to see you again here, a happy ship, is one of the best experiences of my career.”
Bow Saga now returns to her regular schedule after 115 irregular days. While the regional situation remains unpredictable, there is relief that she – along with Bow Summer and our three time-chartered vessels – has safely exited the Persian Gulf.
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