Quarantined tanker cleared to resume voyage after crew tests negative for COVID-19

Three crew members of the Maltese-flagged Samus Swan oil and chemical tanker have been released from a hospital in Spain, after testing negative for the coronavirus twice, the ship’s managers Uni-Tankers confirmed to Offshore Energy-Green Marine.

To remind, the ship has been quarantined at the Isla Verde Exterior dock, in Algeciras, since early last week after several crew members tested positive for the virus following rapid tests.

As disclosed by Uni-Tankers, the seafarers have been taken to a hotel waiting for repatriation to their home countries together with six fellow crew members who were not infected and had remained in quarantine on the vessel.

Meanwhile, a relief crew for the vessel arrived in Spain for a scheduled crew change.

The vessel is being sanitized by a specialized company in the Port of Algeciras and has been granted permission to proceed with its voyage once the cleaning is completed.

“After completing a minor, planned maintenance Uni-Tankers expects the ship to depart in the first part of the new week,” the statement reads.

“Uni-Tankers would like to express their gratitude that all its seafarers are now In a good health condition and ready to be reunited with their families at home. The company would also like to thank the Spanish authorities and medical health services for their professional support and care during this difficult period.”