EQ8 Crew Officially Appointed as Manning Agency for SA Agulhas I

Background on SA Agulhas I

The SA Agulhas, was previously SAMSA’s only dedicated cadet training vessel for over 10 years before it was sold to J*S Maritime earlier in 2024. Although an unfortunate ending to the SA Agulhas as South Africa’s first dedicated training vessel, the historical achievements of the vessel must not be forgotten.

The SA Agulhas I is a storied vessel with a rich history. Originally built in Japan, this 6,100-ton icebreaker measures 367 feet (112 meters) in length and has been a cornerstone of polar research for over three decades. Acquired by the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) in 2011, the SA Agulhas I served as a supply vessel for the South African National Antarctic Program (SANAP), supporting research stations in the Southern Ocean and Antarctica. During her first career, she also conducted numerous research voyages and notable rescue missions, including the famous rescue of the Magdalena Oldendorff in 2002.

The Launch of EQ8 Crew

EQ8 Crew was launched in South Africa, which emerged as a compelling location for the new manning agency for several reasons. Positioned along a bustling maritime route, boasting a history of skilled seafarers, and featuring on the IMO White List, the country presents fertile ground for maritime employment opportunities. This is especially crucial given South Africa's youthful population and high unemployment rates.

In a strategic decision to ensure the success of operations in South Africa, Noatun Maritime founders, Captain Jøran Nøstvik and Carl Martin Faannessen, forged a partnership with EQ8 Recruit, a reputable international shore-based shipping and maritime recruitment consultancy. This collaboration laid the foundation for EQ8 Crew, which was the brainchild of Tracey Lee Shearer, a seasoned professional with deep-rooted connections in the maritime industry.

A New Chapter for SA Agulhas I

Earlier this year, SAMSA announced that J*S Maritime emerged as the ideal buyer for SA Agulhas I. Capt. Stefan Bülow, who founded J*S Maritime in 2018, stated, “We will start a larger German-South African bilateral cooperation, the ‘Sea Experience’ project, which will begin with a cadet training partnership program and employment. This will be followed by other cooperations and support for the South African maritime cluster, including marine, environmental, and climate research, marine technology, research voyages, and sustainable tourism in South Africa.”

Looking Ahead

The SA Agulhas was formerly South Africa’s primary Arctic research and supply vessel before it passed into the hands of the South African Maritime Authority.

As we take on the role of manning agency for SA Agulhas I, EQ8 Crew is committed to upholding the vessel's legacy while contributing to the growth and development of South Africa's maritime industry. We look forward to the opportunities this partnership will bring and are dedicated to making a positive impact on the maritime community.

Stay tuned for more updates as we embark on this exciting new journey with SA Agulhas I.