I want to provide everyone an update on the condition of Royal Star, and the progress made during this week. First off, and of paramount importance to the displaced group of anglers who were so understanding of the circumstances, it appears that it is a very good thing we remained in San Diego rather than slam the downed main engine back together and operate a shortened voyage.

After we reassembled the sick engine on Saturday night, started her up, and experienced nearly identical symptoms as before the first repair attempt, it was apparent that we were dealing with a potentially much bigger issue, with much greater consequences if we were to continue operating as is. This was presented to our group of anglers on Sunday morning as we laid out our possible strategies for a significantly altered voyage. While we felt we could get up and running, there were serious questions as to the origin of the failure, and the probability of another serious failure if we did not determine the root cause.

Keep in mind that these beautiful main engines are nearly brand new, installed in March 2009. They have been operating for just over one year. The type of failure we experienced should not happen if no neglect occurs. We do not neglect our machinery. We are confident of this fact, and maintain detailed maintenance records for this exact reason. Taking this into consideration, our concerns for the long term were understandably elevated. Once the majority decision initiated the loss of the trip, we set the unyielding goal of repairing the downed engine while partnering with the engine manufacturer to run complete diagnostics on BOTH main engines in an effort to evaluate their overall condition. It is a good thing we did. Though we have not found a smoking gun, we did find further significant anomalies in both main engines that could have led to major failures.

While we do not presently have an explanation for the difficulties, we do have a solution in the full replacement of the failed and/or failing parts. We forward this with a tremendous sigh of relief. It appears that we avoided the absolute certainty of another voyage altering breakdown as the result of this week's efforts. Also, rest assured that we are on it now that we have identified an area that must be closely monitored looking forward. We will not allow this to happen again. This is a consensus opinion from us and the engine manufacturer.

Today we will be reassembling both main engines with the new components with plans to run full sea trials this afternoon or Friday. We have found nothing to suggest that this will not occur on schedule. As of now, the voyage departing on Saturday will operate as expected. I will forward another update at the end of the day or tomorrow morning for those on the upcoming voyage.

In closing I want to again extend our most sincere regret to the anglers shouldering the disappointment of losing their vacation this week on our account. While the circumstances were genuinely beyond our control, and this fact was understood by our group, the immeasurable shame and sense of failure felt by Randy, Brian, Tracy, the entire crew, and I will take some time to recover from. Rest assured we never want to find ourselves in this position again. While we know such occurrences are inherent when depending on a huge array of mechanical equipment, this fact does not minimize the grave reality of losing a voyage.

It is not about the problem however. It is about the solution. "When the going gets tough, the tough double down". While chastened, we are far from defeated. Thanks to all who have extended their well wishes and support. Have a fine day!


Tim Ekstrom