MPA resumes safe crew changes on accommodation vessel

In June, the accommodation vessel POSH Bawean was designated as a safe crew change vessel by the MPA. POSH configured the accommodation vessel for deployment at the Eastern Working Anchorage. The vessel is used to house transit seafarers prior to their flights out of Singapore or sign-on for the next assignment for up to 48 hours. POSH Bawean has 52 cabins over four floors, with capacity to provide up to 178 guest beds.

This accommodation vessel enables seafarers to be repatriated safely given that many have spent extended periods out at sea due to Covid-19. Through the establishment of a “safe corridor,” cargo ships calling in Singapore are now able to carry out crew changes while minimising public health risk.

“As Singapore continues to refine measures on safe crew changes amid Covid-19, we are are also doubling down on safety and deep cleaning procedures for our guests aboard the specially repurposed POSH Bawean during their transit,” said POSH in a social media post.
“We look forward to helping even more seafarers return home safely and promptly, and stand ready to do more through the services we provide,” added the OSV owner.

Sailing under the Indonesian flag, POSH Bawean has an overall length of 90.6 m, beam of 20 m, depth of 5 m, with a draught of 3.7 m. Fully air conditioned throughout, the vessel has a galley and mess room, recreation room, gym, laundry and hospital.

Crew receive three meals per day, which are delivered to their rooms.

POSH Bawean is one of three floating accommodation facilities set up by the MPA at the Crew Facilitation Centre at Tanjong Pagar Terminal as holding or quarantine areas that house sign-on and sign-off crew.