COVID 19 - A message from the CEO
19/03/2020
Dear Masters and Chief Engineers, dear Officers and Ratings,
As news of the COVID-19 outbreak reshapes our reality, there is no doubt that this is a challenging time for the shipping community and for us all both from a professional and personal point of view. More than anything, I hope you and your loved ones are safe and well.
Given the circumstances, we regret to inform you that due to the increasing spread of the disease, that is affecting the whole world, we are facing strong difficulties in performing crew changes on board all the vessels of our fleet. As a matter of fact, in the last few days the majority of the countries decided to close their borders, restricting the free movements of citizens and travelers, and reducing shore and air transportation, with the main issue that quarantine measures and new travel restrictions are changing day by day.
Moreover, traveling for our joiners would be an additional source of infection that could put at risk their health and yours, once they reach your good vessel. For the same reason, safe repatriation could not be granted for the off-signers.
Due to the above, we are forced to suspend all crew changes for an initial period up to 30 April 2020, except for emergencies, in order to grant our crew safety.
We are fully aware that postponing your relief for such a long time will cause a great discomfort for you and your families at home, and we assure you that we shall put in our utmost commitment to strictly monitoring the situation in order to amend these measures as soon as crew changes can be performed again in safe conditions.
Our Crew Department will be at your disposal to give any kind of support you and your families could need from our side.
We really need your kind comprehension and acceptance and hope that normal operations resume very soon. Thank you for your understanding and support.
Yours sincerely,
Carlo Galdo
Chairman and CEO
Fratelli d’Amico Armatori S.p.A.