STRATFORD

* We have received reports that a fire was ignited in containers stowed on board container ship STRATFORD (IMO: 9305491) on July 28, 2025, whilst the vessel was navigating approximately 135 nautical miles east of Nha Trang, Vietnam.

* We now understand that shipowners engaged a firefighting tug, on commercial terms, which was successful in extinguishing the fire. Nevertheless, the vessel is expected to deviate to a port of refuge, the location of which is yet to be decided.

* Shipowners have subsequently declared General Average as a consequence of the extra-ordinary costs incurred for the common safety of the maritime adventure.

* Consequently, General Average security will be required from all Cargo Interests prior to the delivery of their cargo and we are likely to be able to assist in that regard.
* We have already been instructed by a number of insurers and we are liaising with the GA adjusters on the issues such as security. We may also be able to offer certain economies of scale in respect of any third-party costs which may need to be incurred.

* It is also likely that cargo stowed near the vicinity of the fire will have suffered fire, heat, and/or smoke damage and/or wet damage, the latter giving rise to sacrificial claims in GA, and being the consequence of the firefighting operation and we have cargo surveyors on hand to establish the extent of damage to any cargo so affected, as necessary.

* We therefore recommend that you contact us urgently if you are concerned with any cargo on board this vessel so that we can immediately start taking steps to protect your interests.