A Panama-flagged merchant vessel that spent more than ten days adrift in the Strait of Gibraltar has been safely towed into the port of Málaga, according to Spanish outlet Sur. The ship, identified as the Marine I, was carrying 17 crewmembers who had reportedly run out of food, water, and fuel after being abandoned by the vessel’s owner.
Spanish authorities had monitored the ship for several days as it drifted in international waters, raising growing concerns for the welfare of those onboard. Following coordination between Spain’s Directorate General of the Merchant Navy and Moroccan authorities, an order to tow the vessel was issued.
A salvage tug brought the Marine I into Málaga late on Thursday night. All crew members were reported safe after the operation, despite the deteriorating conditions they had endured.
The vessel, built in 1994, is believed to be is associated with an owner based in Dubai. Port officials are now working to establish contact with the company to determine responsibility for the crew, outstanding operational costs, and the vessel’s future.
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