The situation remains deeply unstable, with no resolution in sight for the US/Israel–Iran conflict. The impact continues to affect seafarers, commercial shipping, and the global economy. 

The effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz is driving: 

  • Shortages of petroleum products from the Gulf 
  • Rising fuel and gas prices 
  • Disruptions to aviation fuel supply 
  • In some regions, reduced access to cooking and heating
     

These effects are expected to persist even after the Strait reopens. With uncertainty ahead, continued vigilance and readiness to adapt remain essential. 

Amid this, the crew onboard Bow Saga continues to perform with professionalism and resilience. Enhanced security measures include: 

  • Continuous monitoring of surrounding vessels 
  • Strict access control 
  • Regular security patrols
     

The crew remains in daily contact with HQ and the Manila team, while continuing normal operations and maintaining full readiness. Morale is supported through leisure activities while rest hours are carefully managed to keep everyone alert. 

As such, special recognition goes to Captain Ronald Gabriel and his team for their outstanding leadership and professionalism. 

“It is with great respect and appreciation that we acknowledge the performance of the captain, officers, and crew of Bow Saga for carrying out their duties, looking out for their peers, and staying resilient during this challenging time,” VP MPS Gunnar Moen said. 

Crew change update

Meanwhile, following the DMW’s reopening for crew change approvals on May 4, arrangements are underway to rotate ten Bow Saga seafarers who have completed or exceeded their contracts. 

The crew change is planned during the vessel’s Dubai call on or about May 10, when she berths for spares and provisions. 

The operation will be conducted with: 

  • Close coordination with agents, authorities, and security advisors 
  • A controlled and risk-assessed approach 
  • Full compliance with DMW requirements
     

Note that should the situation deteriorate, the crew change will be called off. 

In this regard, acknowledgment is also extended to OPI President and GM Agnes Enesio and her team for swiftly preparing documentation and maintaining close coordination with the DMW. 

 

Security reinforcement – Bow Saga  

No changes to current measures: 

  • Open Ocean security expert remains onboard 
  • Continued focus on: 
    • Crew training and situational awareness 
    • Reinforced procedures 
    • Advisory support to the Master
       

This forms part of our layered security posture and should be reflected in onboard routines and discipline.

 

Fleet and cargo status 

No significant change: 

  • Bow Saga remains loaded with methanol 
  • Three time-charter vessels remain fully laden 
  • All vessels await safe transit clearance out of the Strait of Hormuz 
  • Cargo procedures and risk controls remain in effect

     

Security expectations  

The situation remains volatile and we are maintaining a low threshold for escalation. Masters are to continue: 

  • Compliance with BMP and company procedures 
  • Enhanced watchkeeping 
  • Strict access control and verification 
  • Regular briefings and drills 
  • Immediate reporting of: 
    • Irregular VHF contact 
    • Suspicious approaches or shadowing 
    • External delays or interference

       

Shore contingency  

No significant change: 

  • Ongoing coordination with stakeholders 
  • Continuous monitoring of transit conditions 
  • No transit will proceed unless: 
  • Security conditions are acceptable 
  • Flag state guidance is aligned 
  • War risk insurance is confirmed
     

Further updates will follow as needed. The situation in the region remains complex and unpredictable. The onshore, cross-department task force continues to meet daily for operational and commercial status updates, and keeps in close dialogue with trusted information sources to ensure safety and inform decisions. Tankers, Ship Management, and Corporate work closely together to ensure safety and to reduce the impacts of this prolonged conflict in the short and long term. Safety always comes first.