Supporting maritime safety through SAR training
On July 2, Bow Tribute participated in a Search and Rescue (SAR) exercise with the Spanish Maritime Safety and Rescue Agency (Salvamento Marítimo) while transiting the Tenerife–Gran Canaria Traffic Separation Scheme (TSS) during her voyage from Port Klang to Rotterdam.
Conducted together with rescue helicopter HELIMER 204, the exercise provided an opportunity for the vessel's crew and the rescue team to practice coordinated SAR procedures under realistic operating conditions. It also reinforced cooperation between commercial shipping and maritime rescue authorities, helping maintain a high level of readiness should an emergency occur at sea.
Merchant vessels are often among the first assets available to assist when incidents happen at sea. By participating in exercises like these, crews strengthen the skills, coordination, and preparedness needed to respond effectively while supporting the continued training of maritime rescue personnel.
Following the exercise, the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) Tenerife thanked the crew of Bow Tribute for their cooperation. The center noted that the vessel's participation contributes to the ongoing training of its rescue crews and supports the effectiveness and safety of its search and rescue service.
At Odfjell, we never compromise on safety. We are proud to support initiatives that strengthen collaboration across the maritime community, promote continuous learning, and contribute to safer operations for everyone at sea.
A rare visit to Norway
Later, Bow Tribute made a rare call in Norwegian waters while loading at Mongstad, creating a unique opportunity for colleagues from Odfjell Tankers to come on board and for crew members to visit Odfjell's headquarters.
Meanwhile, crew members enjoyed shore leave that included a guided tour of the headquarters, lunch in the city, some shopping, and a visit to Mount Fløyen. Although the office was quieter than usual over the weekend, Bjørn Hilmar Baug, Eva Storeide, and Fredrik Larsen ensured the group received a warm welcome and a thorough introduction to Odfjell's home base.
For Messman Apolinario Amurao, the visit was especially meaningful. After 30 years of service with Odfjell, he had long dreamed of visiting the company's headquarters. With retirement now just two years away, that dream finally became a reality.
