Stena Impero, the British tanker detained by Iran for 10 weeks amid a tense standoff between the two countries, was allowed to sail from Iranian waters last Friday (27 October) and docked in Dubai the following day.
But concerns remain for a number of other vessels around the world, according to seafarers’ charity Apostleship of the Sea/Stella Maris.
Currently the charity, an agency of the Catholic Church, says it is monitoring 14 other vessels affected by alleged wage problems, lack of shore leave, bullying and harassment, death and piracy.
John Green, director of development with the charity, said: “Every year, out of the media spotlight, Stella Maris port chaplains and volunteers support seafarers in stressful situations that those working on land rarely come across.
“For seafarers the support of good ship owners and Stella Maris remains vital when life at sea can be dangerous and highly stressful.”
The news about Stena Impero’s release was welcomed by the charity’s UK national director Martin Foley.
“After 69 days being detained against their will, it is good news that this crew has finally been allowed to sail and hopefully get back to their families soon,” he said.
