Doulos personnel and partners around the world are coming to terms with the news that the ship’s service will end on 31st December 2009.

Until this week, the crew had hoped the world’s oldest ocean-going passenger ship could continue sailing until September 2010.   But surveys by marine safety authorities confirmed major repairs are required to keep Doulos in service. Early estimates indicated this work would cost over €10 million.

The organisation's executive leadership team and board believe that it is not appropriate to invest resources on this scale into the vessel, since Doulos would have a limited future.

“This is not what any of us wanted and has serious consequences for everyone on board and the ports we planned to visit,” said CEO Peter Nicoll. Each person on Doulos will receive support and guidance as they consider their future steps.

“We recognise God’s faithfulness through 32 years of wonderful service with more than 600 port visits in over 100 countries,” Peter Nicoll said. “We are deeply grateful to our partners around the world who have supported the ship through the years.”

OM Ireland leader Mike Mullins served on Doulos for a number of years, along with his wife Aster.  He said, "I am personally very saddened by the news.  This ship has been a very effective tool for the gospel and has been used by God to transform the lives of millions of  people and communities around the world; perhaps even yours?

"As the ministry of Doulos draw to a close, the ministry of its sister ship Logos Hope is just beginning."

OM Ships Website - Doulos Updates