The MSC Hermes III tanker required medical evacuation on September 29, 2026, off the coast of Vietnam due to an emergency involving one of its crew members. Vietnamese officials reported that this action was taken due to a workplace incident that resulted in serious head injuries to one of the crew members.
Details of the Medical Evacuation
According to reports, the incident occurred on September 28, 2026, while the tanker was approximately 30 nautical miles northeast of Vung Tau. The ship's captain reported that a 30-year-old crew member sustained severe head injuries from a fall and exhibited unusual symptoms including vomiting and unconsciousness. This individual's condition was assessed as critically dangerous and in need of immediate medical assistance.
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Rescue Operations and Official Response
The Vietnam Maritime Search and Rescue Center dispatched a specialized rescue vessel named SAR 272 along with two medical doctors after receiving an emergency call on September 28. The rescue boat set off towards the tanker at 9:15 PM and reached the ship at 1:30 AM on September 29. After providing initial medical assistance, the injured individual was transferred to Ho Chi Minh port and subsequently to a hospital at 6:30 AM. Some reports suggest that this individual may have inhaled toxic gas.
Singaporean officials have not provided any explanation as to why the other 25 crew members left the ship while the tanker was approximately 300 kilometers (186 miles) east of Vietnam. Reports indicate that they boarded lifeboats and were transferred to another MSC vessel. Subsequently, the MSC Hermes III became adrift, and its tugboats directed it towards Vietnam.
Published footage of the rescue operation by Vietnamese authorities shows that crew members are currently aboard the ship, and there are no signs of damage, such as fire. Additionally, the rescue boat is positioned at its location.
AIS signals indicate that the tanker docked at PHU MY port on September 29.
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