Investigations Launched as Three Oil Tankers Experience Explosions in Mediterranean Waters

February 24, 2025

Over the past month, three oil tankers have sustained damage from unexplained explosions in separate areas of the Mediterranean, prompting ongoing investigations.

According to shipping and security officials, these incidents mark a rare occurrence in the region, as non-military vessels have not faced such blast-related damage for decades.

The most recent event took place on Saturday when the Seajewel, a crude oil tanker managed by a Greek company, was hit by two explosions while docked at the Savona-Vado port in northern Italy. The initial blast created a one-meter inward breach below the waterline, while a second explosion followed 20 minutes later, though it reportedly caused no additional harm. Italian prosecutors have since opened an investigation into the matter. The vessel is operated by Thenamaris, an Athens-based shipping company, which has yet to release a public statement regarding the incident.

Another tanker, Seacharm—also under the management of Thenamaris—sustained damage in a separate explosion near Turkey’s Ceyhan port in late January. While two sources verified the event, specific details about the extent of the destruction remain undisclosed.

The third tanker affected, Grace Ferrum, sails under a Liberian flag and was struck by an explosion off Libya’s coast in February. A source familiar with the situation noted that the vessel had suffered significant damage, likely requiring a salvage operation. As of Wednesday, ship tracking data indicated that Grace Ferrum was categorized as “not under command” near Libyan waters. Cymare, the Cyprus-based company managing the vessel, has yet to respond to inquiries regarding the incident.

The exact cause behind these blasts remains unknown, raising concerns within the shipping sector about the safety of commercial operations in the Mediterranean.

Authorities continue to investigate these maritime incidents in an effort to determine their origin and prevent further occurrences.