Freighter Nikol H stuck in Philadelphia since April, 20 crew locked on board

General cargo vessel Nikol H is stuck in Philadelphia US since early April with 20 crew on board incapable of coming ashore. Vessel was detained by USCG with deficiencies requiring repairs. Manager of the vessel, Greek Derna Carriers, doesn’t have money, vessel’s debt is already exceeding $1 million. Most of the crew exceeded their initial 29-days visa and can’t go ashore because it’s prohibited. Some came on board recently, but can’t go ashore, because vessel is anchored in Delaware river, and the crew can’t hire a boat. The crew includes an Egyptian captain, one Ukrainian, and 18 Filipino seamen. Vessel arrived to Philadelphia with cargo of cocoa beans. On a photo from Philly.com Nikol N anchored in Philadelphia downtown.