🚨 Tragedy Off Mozambique: Seven Missing After Crew Boat Capsizes Alongside Scorpio-Managed Tanker Sea Quest
In a tragic maritime incident off the coast of Mozambique, seven people remain missing after a service boat carrying signing crew members capsized earlier today alongside the Scorpio Marine Management–operated oil and chemical tanker Sea Quest (formerly STI Ruby).
According to early reports, the small vessel was ferrying personnel to the 2012-built MR2 tanker at Beira outer anchorage when it overturned under yet-to-be-determined circumstances. The boat was carrying a total of 21 individuals, including five signing-on crew members.
⚓ Search and Rescue Operations Underway
Fourteen individuals have been successfully rescued in coordinated efforts between the Sea Quest crew and nearby vessels responding to distress calls. However, seven people remain unaccounted for, and a full-scale search and rescue mission is ongoing.
The Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) was immediately alerted and is leading the recovery efforts, with several vessels in the vicinity assisting in scanning the area. Among the rescued, three survivors are currently receiving medical attention onboard the tanker, while arrangements for further treatment ashore are being made.
🛳️ Scorpio Marine Management Responds
In an official statement, Scorpio Marine Management confirmed that it is in close contact with maritime authorities and the families of the missing individuals. The company emphasized that rescue operations are continuing around the clock and that a comprehensive investigation will be launched to determine the cause of the capsizing.
“Our immediate focus is on the ongoing rescue and ensuring the well-being of those affected. We are working closely with the authorities and will share updates as new information becomes available,” the company said.
🌍 Broader Safety Concerns and Reflection
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks faced by seafarers and service personnel during offshore crew transfers—particularly in open anchorage conditions and unpredictable weather. Such operations demand the highest levels of coordination, communication, and safety oversight to prevent tragedies like this.
Maritime experts have long emphasized the need for rigorous inspection of service craft, weather checks, and transfer safety protocols, especially when operating near large vessels under dynamic anchorage conditions.
🕯️ The Human Cost at Sea
As the search continues off Beira, the global maritime community stands united in hope and solidarity with the families of those missing. The seafarers who board these vessels do so with courage and dedication—keeping global trade moving even under the most challenging circumstances.
MarineX will continue to monitor the situation closely and share verified updates as the story develops.