Uncertainty in the Mediterranean: Is the sanctioned and stateless tanker heading to Tangier Med?

Uncertainty continues regarding a tanker that has been drifting in the Mediterranean for days, reported to be stateless and under sanctions. Recent reports indicate that the 52,648 dwt tanker named Chariot Tide is making its way towards the Tangier Med Port in Morocco.

Built in 2007, the tanker became the focus of international interest after being detected drifting in the Mediterranean about a week ago. The AI-based maritime intelligence firm Windward reported that the vessel was 'in danger' last Friday. According to the firm's data, the ship's AIS status indicated it was 'not under command,' and the tanker was being monitored by tugboats. The vessel alternated between slow cruising and drifting during this time.

Problems started near Gibraltar after crossing from the Baltic to the Mediterranean. It has been reported that Chariot Tide loaded approximately 300,000 barrels of diesel fuel from Russia's Primorsk Port and began experiencing issues after crossing the Baltic and Atlantic, particularly near Gibraltar. The problems are estimated to have started around January 22.

False flag and controversial registrations. The tanker has been under EU and UK sanctions since 2024. Claims that the vessel is registered under the flags of Mozambique, Gambia, and the Comoros Islands in 2025 have been deemed entirely false, with the Tanzanian registration also unverified. It has been reported that the last inspections took place in 2024, during which 14 deficiencies, including structural and operational issues, were identified. The ownership of the vessel is said to be linked to a shell company based in the Marshall Islands.

“Complicating assistance.” Industry analyst Michelle Wiese Bockmann emphasized that the lack of information regarding the vessel's flag, insurance, and true ownership significantly complicates the processes of assistance and repair. It is believed that the crew is attempting to address a malfunction in the engine or steering system.

Spain is monitoring closely. Spanish authorities have confirmed that the tanker is being monitored. AIS data shows that a Spanish pollution control vessel is tracking the tanker, with Spanish warships occasionally sailing nearby. Reuters reported that it remains unclear why Spain has not seized the vessel, although the tanker appears to be making efforts to stay outside Spanish territorial waters.

According to the latest data, the tanker is once again in motion, cruising at just over 3 knots. Reuters reported that Chariot Tide could be heading towards Tangier Med Port accompanied by a pollution control vessel. A nearby Spanish ship, Clara Campoamor, indicates in its AIS signal that it is on a search and rescue mission.

This incident occurs during a time of heightened concerns in the EU regarding environmental risks and potential pollution associated with unregistered and sanctioned fleets. For now, all eyes are on the next move of the sanctioned tanker.

Source: SeaNews Türkiye

Tangier

Sanctioned Tanker Chariot Tide Approaches Tangier Med Port