Topic
Vessel Flooding and Foundering
Marine vessel flooding, ingress and foundering mechanisms.
Newest 100 Documents
All 335 in search- 202613 Aug
Grounding and subsequent loss of the fishing vessel Silver Cloud II (WK 80)
Investigation of Silver Cloud II’s grounding and subsequent loss near Lochinver. The skipper fell asleep during a lone navigational watch, very likely through acute fatigue exacerbated by illness and inadequate rest. Analysis examines watch alarm limitations and crew abandonment; regular safety drills likely helped the three crew escape without injury.
- 20267 May
Grounding and subsequent loss of the fishing vessel Crystal Stream (LH 147)
MAIB investigates Crystal Stream’s grounding and subsequent loss near Barmore Island, Scotland. The lone watchkeeper fell asleep; severe fatigue from accumulated sleep debt was highly likely. The report examines flooding, ineffective watchkeeping, delayed liferaft evacuation and inadequate safety management, recommending improved watchkeeping procedures and fleetwide fatigue management.
- 20262 Apr
Foundering of the fishing vessel Freedom II (CN 111)
Investigation of Freedom II’s foundering off western Scotland identifies suction-pipe fatigue failure as the most likely flooding source. It examines overwhelmed and unavailable pumps, progressive flooding, seawater isolation, emergency preparedness and delayed distress alerting. All crew were recovered uninjured; actions already taken led to no new recommendations.
- 202624 Mar
MAIB: Sinking of tug Biter with loss of two lives
This safety flash summarises MAIB findings on Biter’s fatal girting and capsize during passenger-vessel towage off Greenock. It highlights incomplete operational exchanges, inadequate pilot training, speed-related line loading, ineffective gob-rope protection and an open hatch. Recommendations address risk assessments, gob-rope rigging, manoeuvring speeds and tug-master and pilot training.
- 202612 Feb
Girting and capsize of tug Biter with the loss of two lives while assisting passenger vessel Hebridean Princess
Investigation of Biter’s fatal girting and capsize while assisting Hebridean Princess on the River Clyde. It examines towing speed, bridle loading, gob-rope securing, watertight integrity, operational exchanges and training. The precise reason for gob-rope rendering remained unresolved; post-salvage testing found the towing-hook release mechanism functional.
- 202611 Feb
Collision between the bulk carrier Polesie and the general cargo ship Verity resulting in the sinking of Verity and loss of five lives
Investigation of the German Bight collision between Polesie and Verity, which rapidly sank with five fatalities. It examines incremental collision-avoidance manoeuvres, navigation displays, late vessel traffic service intervention and duplex radio limitations, alongside flooding, search and rescue, and the constraints imposed by absent voyage data recorder evidence.
- 20265 Feb
Collision between the crude oil tanker Apache and the stern trawler Serinah (GH 116)
Investigates the collision of Apache and Serinah in the Firth of Clyde and the trawler’s subsequent flooding and sinking. Examines inadequate avoiding action, watchkeeping competence, navigation equipment, traffic monitoring and assistance after collision. All three fishing crew survived uninjured; recommendations address navigational training and understanding fishing vessel behaviour.
- 202629 Jan
Flooding and foundering of stern trawler Opportune (LK 209)
Investigation of Opportune’s foundering east of Lerwick following uncontrolled engine-room flooding. Seawater pipework failure was considered the most likely cause, but remained unconfirmed. The report examines pipework inspection, inaccessible sea inlet valves, lack of remote bilge-pump operation and flood preparedness. All eight crew were rescued uninjured from liferafts.
- 202517 Dec
Capsize and foundering of the prawn trawler Odyssey (FR 70)
Investigation of Odyssey’s capsize during net recovery in the North Sea. Wash water accumulated on the shelter deck, with a tonnage valve likely obstructed, causing loss of stability. Stability modelling, pump controls, drainage arrangements and emergency preparedness are examined. All six crew abandoned to a liferaft and were rescued uninjured.
- 20257 Nov
Hull crack arising from vibration
An aluminium vessel continued operating despite propeller vibration, later developing a skeg crack and water ingress into the steering room. Crew fitted a cement box, and management required repairs. The flash highlights aluminium’s susceptibility to repetitive stress and urges investigation of changed or increased vibration.
- 20257 Nov
Watertight door and emergency hatch found open at sea
An offshore audit found engine-room watertight doors and an emergency hatch open at sea, compromising protection against flooding. The flash discusses possible heat-related shortcuts and gaps in crew awareness of closure requirements. It calls for closed barriers at sea, regular training refreshers and proper ventilation rather than opening safety closures.
- 20252 Oct
Grounding and subsequent loss of the dive support vessel Jean Elaine
Investigation of Jean Elaine’s grounding and subsequent loss in Saint Peter’s Pool, Orkney, during scientific diving support. It examines inadequate passage planning, reliance on an unapproved tablet navigation application, ineffective coordination and unchecked certification. Poor hull condition likely contributed to failure after grounding; university and project procedures were subsequently revised.
- 202518 Jul
Capsize and sinking of fishing vessel Njord with loss of 1 life
Investigation of Njord’s capsize and sinking while processing a large catch, with one crew member drowning. Analysis examines catch loading, downflooding through an open drain valve, vessel modifications and stability-book assumptions. Indicative digital stability modelling supports the findings, alongside examination of flotation protection, liferaft deployment, emergency communications and rescue.
- 202514 May
Foundering of the yacht Bayesian with loss of 7 lives
This interim investigation examines Bayesian’s capsize and foundering near Porticello, Italy, with seven fatalities. It describes abandonment and rescue, analyses storm conditions, and models stability and windage with the centreboard raised. Findings rely on limited verified evidence and an assumed loss condition, pending examination of the salvaged wreck.
- 202510 Apr
Swamping of small commercial vessel Calypso 2 with loss of 2 lives
Investigation of Calypso 2’s swamping in a coastal cove in Anguilla, resulting in two drowning fatalities. The report examines exposure to ground seas, excursion risk assessment, passage planning, flotation-device use and regulatory oversight. It also analyses distress alerting, casualty recovery and medical provision, recommending improvements to vessel management and rescue arrangements.
- 20256 Feb
Safety warning issued following Egyptian liveaboard dive boat accidents in the Red Sea resulting in the loss of life
This MAIB bulletin examines three Egyptian liveaboard dive boat casualties in the Red Sea. It identifies inadequate stability, deficient lifesaving and fire protection arrangements, obstructed escape provisions and poor briefings and crew training. Customers are advised to use recognised vendors offering safety assurance and request thorough onboard briefings before departure.
- 202417 Oct
Capsize of recreational craft Wheelyboat 123 with the loss of 2 lives
Investigation of Wheelyboat 123’s fatal capsize on Roadford Lake examines bow-ramp leakage, accumulated deck water, loading and wheelchair movement. It assesses maintenance, driver training, risk assessments and unsuitable flotation provision. Physical flotation tests, numerical stability modelling and computational fluid dynamics inform recommendations for safer operation of craft carrying wheelchair users.
- 202410 Oct
Safety warning issued following the foundering of fishing vessel Argos Georgia with the loss of 13 lives
This safety bulletin presents initial findings from the foundering of Argos Georgia, with 13 lives lost. Its side shell door opened and could not be closed; open internal doors allowed further flooding. Fishing-vessel owners, operators and skippers are urged to assess shell-door risks, implement mitigations and inform crews.
- 20243 Oct
Collision between pair trawlers Guiding Light and Guiding Star resulting in Guiding Star flooding and sinking
This investigation examines a collision during pair-trawler fish transfers south-east of Fair Isle, followed by Guiding Star’s flooding and sinking. It analyses unattended navigational controls, undocumented transfer practices, flooding limitations and emergency preparedness. Crew abandonment and recovery succeeded without serious injuries; recommendations address flooding awareness and accessible survival equipment.
- 202415 Aug
Flooding and partial sinking of an inflatable migrant boat with the loss of at least 8 lives
Investigation into an inflatable migrant boat’s flooding and partial sinking in the Dover Strait, with at least eight lives lost. It examines poor construction, floor failure of unknown initial cause, cold-water immersion, buoyancy aids and UK search and rescue operations, including weather-limited aerial surveillance and distress reporting.
- 20241 Aug
Capsize and sinking of fishing vessel Angelena
Investigation of Angelena’s capsize and sinking during single-handed catch recovery off Exmouth. It examines excessive suspended net loading, low fuel levels, vessel modifications and absent stability testing. The report also analyses crewing assumptions in risk assessments, stability training and lifesaving arrangements that helped the uninjured skipper survive.
- 202431 Jul
Side scuttle (porthole) knocked out by wave impact
A wave dislodged a cabin porthole on a platform supply vessel in heavy seas, propelling components across the cabin and admitting water. Metallurgical investigation attributed failure to poorly manufactured, overtightened screws. Actions included scuttle inspections and overhaul, revised deadlight procedures and signage discouraging overtightening.
- 202425 Jul
Grounding and subsequent loss of commercial swim event support vessel Channel Queen
Investigation of Channel Queen’s grounding on the Varvassi wreck during an Isle of Wight relay swim on 20 July 2023. It examines inadequate passage planning, ineffective navigation equipment use, the qualified skipper’s departure and divided attention at the helm. Recommendations address qualified crewing and chart-based passage planning; flooding led to beaching and abandonment.
- 202420 Jun
Flooding, capsize and sinking of stern trawler Piedras
Investigates the flooding, capsize and sinking of Piedras south-west of Mizen Head. The initial water ingress source remains unknown. Analysis examines unsuccessful pumping, watertight integrity, flood-response preparation and delayed distress signalling, alongside liferaft deployment and servicing deficiencies. All crew were rescued uninjured from the working liferaft.
- 202413 Jun
Collision between fishing vessel Kirkella and pusher tug Shovette
Investigation of Kirkella’s collision with Shovette in Hull following propulsion control transfer with mismatched pitch levers. The tug partially sank and released about 7,000 litres of diesel. The report examines control interfaces, absent interlocks, handover procedures and safety management, recording interim checks and requested system modifications.
- 2024May
CHIRP Superyacht FEEDBACK 6 (Summer 2024)
This superyacht incident digest examines watertight door failures, a starting battery explosion, a galley fire, unprotected window cleaning and steering loss. Commentary addresses alarm visibility, towing checks, battery maintenance, heat lamp safeguards, crew numbers and the independence of the designated person ashore.
- 202416 Apr
A reminder on watertight doors
A safety walkaround found watertight doors open when they should have been secured. Reviews on other fleet vessels identified routine shortcuts and gaps in crew awareness. The flash explains flood containment, reiterates SOLAS and company closure requirements, and asks how safe working could be made easier.
- 202419 Mar
High potential: sea water inlet pipe leakage in engine room
A vessel crew discovered seawater leakage from corroded air-conditioning condenser pipework near the hull while offshore. A cement box contained the leak before emergency dry-docking for repairs. The flash identifies missing documented condition checks and recommends regular inspection of ship-side valves and piping within planned maintenance.
- 202427 Feb
LTI: Damage and personal injury arising from heavy weather
A rogue wave forced open a vessel’s weathertight crane-pedestal door. While attempting to close it, a crew member was struck by incoming water and washed down two flights of stairs, sustaining serious injuries. The flash examines door orientation, coordinated medical care and recommendations to reposition the door and maintain weather awareness.
- 2024
MAIB Safety Digest 2/2024
A collection of marine accident accounts and preventive lessons spanning merchant shipping, commercial fishing and recreational boating. Cases examine steering and propulsion failures, mooring injuries, grounding, fire, flooding and capsize. Lessons address maintenance, navigation, risk assessment, equipment interfaces, watertight integrity and emergency evacuation, alongside reproduced safety bulletins and flyers.
- 20239 Nov
Flooding and partial sinking of an inflatable migrant boat with at least 27 lives lost
Investigation into an inflatable migrant boat’s flooding and partial sinking in the Dover Strait, with at least 27 deaths. Examines emergency-call reconciliation, coastguard staffing, cross-border coordination, helicopter and cutter searches, thermal detection limitations and forensic drift modelling. The initial water-ingress cause and exact casualty location remained undetermined.
- 202223 Nov
MAIB: Flooding and sinking of the survey workboat Bella
This safety flash summarises MAIB findings on Bella’s sinking during hydrographic surveying near Lynmouth. Survey equipment modifications reduced forward freeboard, while inadequate buoyancy allowed swamping to overwhelm the boat. It highlights certification and safety-management shortcomings, alongside the crew’s successful abandonment using personal flotation devices and a life raft.
- 202223 Nov
Vessel collision with underwater objects in harbour
An AHTS vessel departing a harbour struck uncharted submerged pilings, damaging its hull and allowing seawater ingress. The flash identifies missing navigational markings and inaccurate chart information. It recommends calculating under-keel clearance with relevant operating factors and, where possible, avoiding areas subject to navigation warnings.
- 20222 Sep
Flooding and sinking of survey workboat Bella
Investigation into Bella’s flooding and sinking during hydrographic surveying near Lynmouth. Survey equipment modifications reduced forward freeboard, while inadequate buoyancy and non-watertight openings allowed progressive flooding. The report examines deficient commercial certification and safety management, records the crew’s safe abandonment and rescue, and recommends improved certification guidance and vessel safety management.
- 2022Sep
CHIRP Maritime FEEDBACK 68 (September 2022)
Maritime incident digest examining unsafe work aloft, a timber-cargo overboard casualty, fatal crane-access falls, engine maintenance, navigation errors, tug capsizing and flooding, hot-fuel burns and an eye injury. Commentary addresses continuous harness connection, rescue planning, towage competence, watertight closures, maintenance programmes and accountability during permitted work.
- 202222 Jun
Capsize and sinking of scallop dredger Joanna C with loss of 2 lives
Investigation of Joanna C’s fatal capsize south of Newhaven during scallop dredge recovery. It examines stability degraded by modifications, unfinished inclining-experiment analysis and regulatory oversight. Liferaft buoyancy and inflation-force testing explains failed automatic inflation, while survival analysis addresses flotation loss, delayed beacon activation and escape from the sinking vessel.
- 202222 Jun
Capsize and sinking of whelk potter Nicola Faith with loss of 3 lives
Investigation of Nicola Faith’s fatal capsize in Colwyn Bay examines vessel modifications, combined catch and pot loading, and survival arrangements. Stability testing and modelling underpin the conclusion that loading almost certainly caused sudden instability. The report also assesses regulatory gaps, mandatory training, emergency beacons and personal flotation.
- 202220 Jun
NTSB: watertight doors – vessel sank after flooding
This safety flash summarises NTSB findings on a towing vessel that flooded and sank. Unsecured or open aft deck hatches were the probable cause, with progressive flooding through bulkhead openings. Ineffective hull inspection and maintenance contributed. Lessons emphasise regular hull oversight, watertight integrity and permanent corrosion repairs.
- 202222 Mar
MAIB: Flooding, capsize and foundering of small vessel after issues with towing wires
This flash summarises a fishing boat loss involving hull damage from trawl doors while uncrossing towing wires, unnoticed flooding and capsize. It examines absent watertight subdivision, unheard bilge alarms and abandonment to a life raft. Lessons address reassessing changed operations, checking unattended spaces, wearing lifejackets and using emergency equipment.
- 202222 Mar
MAIB: Unexploded ordnance – subsea explosion causes injury and damage
This safety flash summarises a seabed bomb explosion during crab-pot hauling by Galwad-Y-Mor in the North Sea. Five crew members suffered significant injuries, while the vessel sustained major damage and flooding. It highlights effective distress communication, evacuation, rescue and casualty triage, alongside the hull’s resistance to the blast.
- 202211 Mar
Get it fixed!! Deteriorated seals on emergency hatch
A vessel inspection during five-yearly docking identified deteriorated hatch seals, presenting a potential risk of seawater leakage into the engine room. Crew had previously recognised the condition and received replacement seals but deferred fitting them until docking. The flash highlights poor risk perception and urges timely action on identified defects.
- 20229 Feb
Flooding, capsize and sinking of prawn trawler Diamond D
Investigation of Diamond D’s flooding, capsize and sinking near Tynemouth on 16 August 2020. Hull damage from trawl doors was considered almost certain. The report examines crossed towing wires, reduced manning, unnoticed bilge alarms, pumping limitations and absent watertight subdivision, alongside liferaft abandonment and the successful rescue of both crew.
- 202220 Jan
Subsea explosion resulting in damage to crab potting vessel Galwad-Y-Mor and injuries to crew
Investigation of a seabed bomb explosion during crab-pot recovery by Galwad-Y-Mor, causing vessel damage, flooding and significant crew injuries. The report assesses potting-gear disturbance of likely wartime ordnance, fragment examination and explosive traces, alongside watertight subdivision, crew preparedness, rescue and casualty triage.
- 202116 Dec
Grounding of chemical tanker Key Bora
Investigates Key Bora’s grounding near Kyleakin pier, Scotland, with hull damage and ballast tank flooding but no injury or pollution. Examines inaccurate survey data used for passage planning, ineffective ECDIS use, bridge resource management and deficiencies in pier safety governance, alongside subsequent actions and recommendations.
- 20213 Dec
Collision between prawn trawler Achieve and general cargo vessel Talis and subsequent sinking of Achieve
Investigates the collision of Achieve and Talis in fog off Tynemouth and Achieve’s subsequent sinking under tow. Examines unattended and distracted watchkeeping, radar detection, reliance on AIS, omitted fog signals and delayed avoiding action. Reviews flooding response and rescue, recommending proper-lookout procedures and reminders of collision-regulation obligations.
- 202128 Oct
NTSB: The sinking of the El Faro – an illustrated digest
This safety flash summarises an NTSB illustrated digest on El Faro’s fatal sinking during a hurricane in 2015. It highlights command decisions, outdated weather information, ineffective bridge resource management, flooding and propulsion loss, alongside recommendations addressing training, watertight integrity, machinery capability and lifeboat arrangements.
- 202114 Oct
Capsize of motor cruiser Norma G with loss of 1 life
Investigation of Norma G’s fatal capsize approaching the Camel Estuary. It examines steep waves over the Doom Bar, navigation limitations, limited buoyancy and cabin entrapment involving inflated lifejackets. The report also analyses rescue and casualty extraction, boating training and harbour guidance, recommending clearer passage information and consideration of a navigation aid.
- 20219 Sep
Immobilisation and flooding of dredger Shearwater following repeated collisions with unmanned barge Agem One
Investigation of Shearwater’s immobilisation and flooding near Kinlochbervie while towing Agem One. Towline fouling disabled propulsion, and repeated barge collisions breached the hull. The report examines towing suitability, crew competence, passage planning, HMPE tow arrangements, bilge pumping and regulatory oversight. The initial towline failure’s precise cause remained undetermined.
- 20216 Aug
Sinking of the wooden hulled motorboat Globetrotter with loss of 1 life
Investigation of Globetrotter’s foundering off Fleetwood during a recreational angling trip, with one drowning after anchor-rope entanglement. The report examines poor wooden-hull condition, probable grounding damage, inadequate passage planning and emergency preparedness. It discusses bilge pumping, flotation devices, liferaft provision and rescue difficulties; the exact source of water ingress remained unestablished.
- 20219 Jun
MSF: Tank corrosion
A vessel’s routine tank sounding revealed rising liquid levels and a pinhole leak admitting salt water. Investigation found coating damage from the sounding weight and incorrectly discarded corrosive chemicals had degraded the striking plate and underlying steelwork. Repairs followed, with crew reminded about chemical handling, safety data sheets and authorised hazardous-waste disposal.
- 20218 Apr
Flooding and sinking of trawler Ocean Quest
Investigation of Ocean Quest’s loss following uncontrolled engine-room flooding. The source remained undetermined, but shell plating or weld failure beneath the main engine was considered almost certain. Analysis examines hull survey limitations, reduced bilge-pump effectiveness with partly open sea suctions, unusable borrowed pumps and successful crew abandonment following regular drills.
- 2021Apr
MAIB Safety Digest 1/2021
A marine accident digest presenting separate lessons for merchant shipping, fishing vessels and recreational craft. Cases examine unsafe access, lifting gear, engine fires, navigation, capsize and flooding. Discussions address risk assessment, supervision, casualty recovery, mooring checks and navigation aids. Appendix coverage dates refer specifically to investigations started, rather than incident dates.
- 20214 Jan
NTSB: Flooding, sinking and loss of tugboat Mangilao
This safety flash summarises NTSB findings on a tugboat sinking during tow from Guam to Subic Bay. The investigation identified loss of a towline shackle pin as the probable cause of towing arrangement failure, leaving the vessel adrift and admitting boarding seas during a developing typhoon. No lives were lost.
- 2021
MAIB Safety Digest 2/2021
A collection of merchant, fishing and recreational vessel cases examines navigation errors, mooring hazards, machinery fires, flooding and immersion. Lessons address task planning, supervision, maintenance, enclosed-space precautions and emergency readiness. Appendices list investigations and reports and reproduce provisional guidance on anchor failures during prolonged cruise-ship anchoring.
- 202015 Apr
Vessel flooding incident
Seawater entered a vessel’s engine room through a hole in a box cooler bulkhead. Hand pumps controlled flooding before an emergency return to port. Dry-dock inspection identified extensive corrosion; a link to the marine growth protection system malfunction remained unverified. Repairs included additional sacrificial anodes, with regular condition and performance verification recommended.
- 202017 Mar
Damage and engine room flooding following contact by tugboat
A tug lost manoeuvrability during berthing and struck a vessel, tearing its hull and flooding the engine room. Emergency bilge suction using a ballast pump controlled the flooding. The flash examines excessive vessel speed, rough weather, communication and supervision failures, and stresses the master’s authority and familiarity with damage-control arrangements.
- 202010 Jan
Water ingress during tropical storm
Rainwater entered a vessel’s upper tween deck through an improperly secured stores hatch during a tropical storm. Deformed hinges impaired hatch seating and clamp operation. Crew contained the ingress by listing the vessel, although some water reached accommodation. Actions addressed hatch securing, regular checks and preventive maintenance.
- 201930 Sep
For want of a watchman, the ship was lost
A winter-laid-up Great Lakes bulk carrier suffered a severe fire while unmanned, with no injuries. Frozen hydrants hindered firefighting; shore-power loss and freezing conditions subsequently contributed to machinery-space flooding. The flash relays USCG recommendations for continuous watches, written emergency duties and engineering expertise during lay-up preparations.
- 20194 Sep
Listing of crew boat due to water ingress
A crew boat listed on its first voyage after dry-docking when water entered a starboard void space. The flash describes valve installation and gasket defects, a visual-only bilge alarm and a pump control in manual mode. It highlights absent post-drydock inspection and testing, and subsequent pre-sail checks.
- 201912 Aug
Seawater entering cabin caused electrical fault
A passenger cabin porthole left slightly open during vessel operations admitted seawater into an electrical socket, causing a short circuit, burnt wiring and smoke. Responders isolated the supply. The flash highlights vessel induction, watertight integrity inspections when leaving port and a safety discussion involving passengers and crew.
- 20195 Jul
Man overboard fatality
During pilot-transfer preparations on a container ship in heavy weather, seas forced a side hatch open and flooded the embarkation space. One crewman was swept overboard and presumed dead; another sustained a broken leg. The flash highlights protective equipment, weather-aware risk assessment, pilot-transfer procedures, communication and supervision.
- 20191 Jul
Have a regime when the current’s abeam – ensure adequate manoeuvring space!
Three towing vessels sank on the Lower Mississippi River after becoming pinned broadside against objects in strong currents; one casualty involved a fatality. The flash summarises preliminary similarities and Coast Guard recommendations to avoid confined transits, minimise beam-to-current operations and establish minimum separation before such manoeuvres.
- 201929 May
Capsize and sinking of prawn trawler Nancy Glen with loss of 2 lives
Investigation of Nancy Glen’s fatal capsize in Lower Loch Fyne examines trawl loading during a turn and stability reduced by cumulative modifications, including a heavier crane and relocated tanks. Underwater surveys, laser scanning and inclining trials informed the analysis. Recommendations address regular, comparable stability checks for small fishing vessels.
- 201924 Apr
Capsize of fishing vessel Laura Jane with loss of 1 life
Investigation of Laura Jane’s fatal capsize in Plymouth Sound. Fishing-gear loading submerged freeing ports, allowing water to accumulate aft and destabilise the vessel. The report examines freeboard, roll and heel testing, inspection shortcomings, stability training and the delayed extraction of the skipper from the wheelhouse.
- 2019Apr
MAIB Safety Digest 1/2019
A marine accident digest examining merchant, fishing and recreational vessel casualties. Cases address collisions, groundings, mooring equipment failures, fires, flooding and fatal water-entry accidents. Lessons discuss passage planning, equipment testing, alarm accuracy, emergency arrangements and risk assessment. A reproduced bulletin examines oxygen deficiency during refrigerated salt-water tank entry.
- 201924 Jan
Grounding of general cargo vessel Celtica Hav
Investigation of Celtica Hav’s grounding on a training wall in the River Neath approaches, causing hull damage and flooding. It examines deficient pilotage planning, ineffective master/pilot information exchange and unused electronic navigation capabilities. Emergency pumping and delayed coastguard notification are assessed, with recommendations addressing pilotage plans, checklists and position monitoring.
- 2018Oct
MAIB Safety Digest 2/2018
A collection of marine accident lessons covering merchant vessels, fishing boats and recreational craft. Cases examine navigation errors, flooding, machinery failures, fires, scalding, overboard emergencies and carbon monoxide poisoning. Discussion addresses electronic chart checks, alarm use, maintenance, risk assessment and practised emergency procedures, with appended rescue-line and yacht-keel safety bulletins.
- 201820 Jun
Grounding of general cargo vessel Ruyter
Investigation of Ruyter’s grounding at Rathlin Island examines an unattended bridge, disabled watch alarms and absent night lookout. It analyses alcohol consumption, inadequate company oversight and normalised departures from watchkeeping instructions. Hull damage caused flooding; the vessel refloated without assistance. Subsequent company action included random alcohol testing and crew reporting empowerment.
- 201814 Jun
USCG: Role of the main propulsion lube oil system in the loss of the El Faro
This flash summarises USCG findings on El Faro’s propulsion loss and sinking. Static modelling indicated that severe inclination and relatively low sump oil volume would likely cause pump suction loss; sloshing was excluded. Operators are urged to review machinery procedures and limitations and verify compliance with applicable standards.
- 201823 May
Flooding and sinking of stern trawler Ocean Way
Investigation of Ocean Way’s foundering near Lerwick following flooding almost certainly caused by a trawl door striking the hull. It examines inaccessible damage, inadequate aft-compartment drainage, blocked pump strainers, watertight integrity and emergency preparedness. Escape-hatch submergence caused overwhelming downflooding; everyone who entered the water was rescued.
- 201826 Apr
Groundings made by bulk carrier Ocean Prefect
Investigates Ocean Prefect’s two groundings at Umm Al Qaywayn on 10 and 11 June 2017. Analysis examines tidal set, limited local pilot knowledge, passage monitoring, inadequate survey information and misleading channel marks. The second grounding breached three ballast tanks. Agreed port improvements and company actions resulted in no recommendations.
- 2018Apr
MAIB Safety Digest 1/2018
A collection of marine accident lessons covering merchant, fishing and recreational vessels. Cases examine collisions, groundings, flooding, fires and personnel injuries, with attention to navigation, towing, maintenance and emergency readiness. Equipment-specific discussions include pilot-ladder deterioration, bilge-pump blockage, carbon monoxide alarms and safety-tether hook deformation under lateral loading.
- 201715 Dec
Bow thruster room flooded during fresh water transfer operation
Fresh-water transfer flooded a vessel’s bow thruster room through an unclosed sounding pipe after a cadet changed the tank filling sequence. The flash identifies inadequate risk assessment, absent crew discussion, neglected bilge alarm and failure to follow the emergency plan, with lessons on watch-keeping, handover and trainee supervision.
- 201715 Dec
Potential engine room flooding: maintenance and equipment failure issues on a laid-up vessel
A cooling-line hose disconnected after a corroded clamp broke during maintenance aboard a vessel in cold lay-up. Seized isolation valves complicated stopping the seawater flow. The flash examines maintenance records, crew communications and emergency preparedness, recommending more rigorous inspection and better management of maintenance and safety systems for laid-up vessels.
- 20177 Nov
Loss of tow and subsequent foundering of two vessels
This safety flash summarises the foundering of two vessels towed side by side by Maersk Battler. Failed fenders allowed damaging interaction, followed by water ingress, capsizing and sinking. The investigation linked technical and organisational circumstances and found that risk mitigation inadequately addressed interactions between hazards.
- 20175 Oct
Flooding in steering gear compartment
Heavy-weather water ingress through a worn towing pin/Karm fork seal flooded a vessel’s steering compartment and caused loss of steering. The flash describes delayed alarm escalation, broken bilge alarm float arms, pumping and equipment isolation. Lessons address alarm response, regular logged compartment inspections and checks of bilge sensor operation.
- 2017Oct
MAIB Safety Digest 2/2017
Marine accident cases draw lessons for merchant vessels, fishing boats and recreational craft. They examine fires, collisions, lifting failures, falls, entanglement, flooding and emergency recovery. Practical discussions cover navigation aids, risk assessment, drills and equipment integrity. An appended safety bulletin examines low-sulphur marine gas oil waxing and cold-temperature fuel testing.
- 201726 Jul
Sinking of vivier creel boat Louisa with loss of 3 lives
Investigation of Louisa’s fatal foundering at anchor in Mingulay Bay examines probable hold flooding from a deck wash hose, disabled bilge warning and crew fatigue. Wreck examination and modelling accompany analysis of liferaft inflation failure, lifejacket performance, equipment servicing and delays in the distress-alert and rescue response.
- 201725 Jul
High potential incident: Fast rescue craft capsized
A fast rescue craft capsized during a near-shore seismic survey after towed equipment snagged on the seabed and weather deteriorated. Four people entered the sea without injury. The flash discusses overridden stop-work intervention, loading limits and emergency arrangements, alongside two further small-boat incidents involving swell, collision and floating hoses.
- 201719 Jul
Girting and capsize of tug Domingue while assisting container ship CMA CGM Simba with loss of 2 lives
This MAIB investigation examines Domingue’s fatal capsize while assisting CMA CGM Simba’s departure from Tulear. It analyses ship movements, tug capability, missing gog rope and emergency tow release, and communication and monitoring failures. Open closures probably contributed through downflooding. The report records fleet actions and makes no recommendations.
- 201729 Jun
Grounding and evacuation of domestic passenger vessel Surprise
Investigation of Surprise’s grounding at Western Rocks, Isles of Scilly, and the safe evacuation of 48 passengers. The report examines inadequate passage planning, visual navigation in an intertidal area, outdated electronic charts and subsequent flooding. It identifies gaps in emergency procedures, safety management and local licensing assessments.
- 2017Apr
MAIB Safety Digest 1/2017
A multi-case digest draws preventive lessons from merchant shipping, fishing and recreational boating accidents. It examines navigation, vessel flooding, fires, machinery injuries and people entering the water, with particular attention to unnecessary risk-taking, equipment suitability, maintenance, risk assessment and effective casualty recovery.
- 201728 Mar
MAIB: Two recent vessel collisions
This safety flash summarises two MAIB collision investigations. Daroja and Erin Wood highlight inadequate lookout, lone watch-keeping risk and unsecured watertight doors. City of Rotterdam and Primula Seaways illustrate pilot disorientation associated with an off-axis bridge window, late master intervention, insufficiently robust challenges and inadequate speed reduction.
- 201715 Feb
Collision between ro-ro freight ferry Petunia Seaways and historic motor launch Peggotty
MAIB investigates a ferry–motor launch collision in dense fog on the River Humber. Peggotty sank after its two occupants were rescued uninjured. The report examines passage planning, seaworthiness, radar use, speed, fog signals and vessel traffic service communications, recording subsequent organisational actions without making recommendations.
- 201622 Dec
Collision between general cargo vessel Daroja and oil bunker barge Erin Wood
Investigation of the collision between Daroja and Erin Wood south-east of Peterhead on 29 August 2015. It examines absent lookouts, lone watchkeeping, unused navigational aids, crew competence and safety-management shortcomings. Collision damage and open weathertight doors caused flooding; the report also analyses emergency pumping, fuel leakage and regulatory oversight.
- 201617 Nov
Capsize and flooding of berthed scallop dredger Fredwood resulting in loss of the vessel
Investigates Fredwood’s loss on a drying berth at Maryport. Untended mooring lines preceded a port list, placing the vessel’s weight on a protruding sonar tube and damaging hull planking. The report examines delayed emergency action, changed berth conditions after dredging and harbour safety management, recommending adequate resources for the commercial docks.
- 201616 Nov
Grounding and capsize of berthed trawler Saint Christophe 1 resulting in loss of the vessel
This investigation examines two French trawlers grounding at Dartmouth while sheltering from bad weather. Saint Christophe 1 capsized and flooded; Sagittaire’s crew arrested its list with chains. Findings address the sloping berth, misunderstood warnings, deficient watertight closures, missing harbour charts and ineffective implementation of port risk controls.
- 20163 Nov
Man overboard from potter Harvester resulting in vessel sinking with loss of 2 lives
Investigation into Harvester’s grounding and loss after both fishermen probably went overboard while shooting pots near Ramsey Island. One died from drowning; the other remained missing. The report examines presumed working arrangements, separation from running gear, flotation devices, cold-water immersion, personal locator beacons and the value of AIS tracks for searches.
- 201627 Jul
Flooding and sinking of wooden potter Majestic
Investigation of Majestic’s flooding and sinking off Shetland on 21 January 2016. The precise ingress source remained unknown, but seawater-system failure was considered probable. Analysis examines unheard wheelhouse bilge alarms, unused pumping capacity, emergency drills and lifejacket use. Both crew abandoned into a liferaft and were rescued without injury.
- 20167 Jul
Capsize and sinking of scallop dredger JMT with loss of 2 lives
Investigation of JMT’s fatal capsize and sinking examines reduced stability following conversion to scallop dredging, asymmetric gear handling after a winch breakdown, and survival arrangements. It compares stability assessment methods, scrutinises inspection and regulatory gaps, and recommends stability awareness training and Wolfson freeboard marks.
- 201630 Jun
Grounding and flooding of scallop dredger St Apollo
Investigation of St Apollo’s grounding in the Sound of Mull and subsequent flooding during a falling tide. The report examines position monitoring, autopilot heading inputs, watchkeeper competence and alertness, abandonment and watertight closures. The reported loss of heading control remained unresolved; the vessel was salvaged but declared a constructive total loss.
- 201630 Jun
Near-miss: Cargo shifted in heavy seas whilst alongside platform
A squall wave flooded a platform supply vessel’s back deck during cargo and fuel transfer alongside a platform, shifting one unsecured container and overturning another. No injuries, spills or external container damage occurred. Lessons address abnormal-wave risk assessment, toolbox talks, stop-work authority and planned higher bulwarks.
- 201627 Jun
High potential near-miss: Damage to small boat during offshore survey operations
A small survey boat suffered partial foredeck detachment during offshore transit after a following wave overtook it. Investigation identified insufficient hull-to-foredeck bonding during construction. The crew implemented emergency arrangements and diverted to port. Actions addressed construction quality control, routine bonding inspections, structural repairs and verification of surveyor competence.
- 201612 May
Girting and capsize of mooring launch Asterix
Investigation of Asterix’s girting and capsize during harbour towage at Fawley Marine Terminal. It examines towline geometry, gog-rope arrangements, unsuccessful manual towing-hook release and subsequent flooding. Findings address operational communication, crew training, control layout, release testing and watertight closures; both crew members survived following rescue.
- 201611 Apr
Fire and sinking of twin-rig prawn trawler Karinya
MAIB examines the fire and subsequent foundering of Karinya in the Moray Firth. The ignition source remained undetermined, although a cigarette was considered probable. Analysis addresses combustible cabin contents, inaudible fire alarms, rapid smoke spread, inaccessible lifejackets and radios, and the successful liferaft evacuation supported by regular emergency drills.
- 2016Apr
MAIB Safety Digest 1/2016
Marine accident case studies cover merchant vessels, commercial fishing and recreational craft, examining navigation, fatigue, flooding, fires, machinery entanglement and overboard emergencies. Lessons address risk assessment, training, maintenance and emergency preparation. A reproduced bulletin examines premature failure of jacketed synthetic mooring ropes and limitations of internal condition assessment.
- 201631 Mar
Listing, flooding and grounding of vehicle carrier Hoegh Osaka
This safety flash summarises MAIB findings on Hoegh Osaka’s listing, flooding and grounding after departure from Southampton. Inadequate stability went unidentified before sailing; shifting cargo breached the hull. It emphasises accurate loading-computer inputs and sufficient time for pre-departure stability calculations. All crew were safely evacuated.
- 201616 Mar
Listing, flooding and grounding of vehicle carrier Hoegh Osaka
Investigation of Hoegh Osaka’s stability loss, flooding and grounding in the Solent. It examines cargo distribution, inaccurate cargo and ballast data, omitted cargo centres of gravity and missing departure stability verification. Independent modelling informed the analysis; cargo shift was most likely consequential. The report also reviews securing arrangements, evacuation and revised operational procedures.
- 20168 Mar
Capsize and sinking of twin-rig prawn trawler Kairos
Investigation of Kairos’s capsize and sinking while recovering a lost prawn trawl in very rough seas west of the Isles of Scilly. Computer-based stability analysis examines creeper-wire loading, deck swamping and probable downflooding through vents. The report also considers skipper decision-making, abandonment and the successful recovery of all five crew.
- 20168 Mar
Collision between stern trawlers Good Intent and Silver Dee resulting in Silver Dee sinking
Investigation of an Irish Sea collision between wooden stern trawlers Silver Dee and Good Intent. Ineffective lookout and probable watchkeeper fatigue contributed to the accident. Silver Dee flooded rapidly without watertight subdivision and sank after its crew transferred safely. The report examines navigation practices, abandonment and construction standards, recommending improved watchkeeping.