Activity
Fishing Operations
Commercial catching and handling work and fishing-vessel operations.
Newest 100 Documents
All 275 in search- 202620 Aug
Man overboard from the lone-operated creel fishing vessel Sea Eagle (AH18) resulting in one presumed fatality
MAIB investigates the presumed loss of Sea Eagle’s lone skipper off Montrose. The mechanism of entry into the water remains unknown. Analysis examines semi-self-shooting creel operations, increased entanglement risk when carrying two strings, incomplete risk assessments, cold-water exposure and limitations on raising the alarm and self-recovery.
- 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.
- 202625 Jun
Serious injury to a crew member on board the scallop dredger Jacoba (BM77)
Investigation into serious crushing injuries aboard Jacoba during scallop dredging in the English Channel. A winch-operated main beam was lowered while a deckhand worked beneath it to clear snagged gear. The report examines inadequate task-specific risk assessments, snag-clearing procedures, familiarisation, crew certification and oversight, and recommends improvements to fleet safety management.
- 202618 Jun
Fall overboard from the crab potting vessel Amadeus (TH7) with the loss of 1 life
Investigation of a fatal fall overboard during manual crab-pot hauling on Amadeus in the North Sea. It examines low bulwark protection, biomechanical demands, almost certain significant fatigue, absent flotation and ineffective recovery arrangements. Findings address deficient safety management and regulatory oversight, with recommendations on fall prevention, handling assessment and work–rest monitoring.
- 202621 May
Man overboard from the potting vessel Wilaya (M36) with the loss of 1 life
Investigation of a fatal overboard incident during pot deployment on Wilaya near Jack Sound. A rope bight caught the deckhand’s leg, dragging him into the sea; attached gear overcame his flotation device. The report examines crew–gear separation, risk-assessment implementation, safety training, inspection shortcomings and casualty recovery.
- 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.
- 202630 Apr
Double man overboard from the fishing vessel Weston Bay (GY123) with the loss of 1 life
Investigation into two deckhands entering the water during pot deployment aboard Weston Bay, with one death. It examines manual downstacking, exposure to running gear, loss of flotation support and failed recovery equipment, alongside deficiencies in emergency drills, risk assessments, crew task allocation and safety training. The second deckhand’s entry mechanism remains unknown.
- 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.
- 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.
- 202615 Jan
Fatal injury to a deckhand following a chain failure on the scallop dredger Honeybourne III (PD905)
Investigation of a deckhand’s fatal injury aboard Honeybourne III after a quick-release chain failed and a towing block fell during fishing-gear retrieval. The report examines chain bending, wear, material properties, inspection competence and suspended-load exposure, supported by laboratory testing and finite element analysis. It records company actions and regulatory oversight deficiencies.
- 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.
- 202511 Sep
Man overboard from fishing vessel Kingfisher (DH 110) with the loss of 1 life
This investigation examines a fatal overboard accident during manual creel shooting on Kingfisher. A toggle passed through a loose flotation-device becket, attaching a deckhand to fishing gear that pulled him underwater. It analyses equipment compatibility, uncommunicated snagging hazards, ineffective risk assessments and incomplete training, and records recovery efforts and subsequent safety actions.
- 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.
- 202510 Jul
Man overboard from creel fishing vessel Nista (LK121) with loss of 1 life
Investigation of a fatal overboard accident involving Nista’s lone skipper during creel shooting near Luing. Entanglement in the back rope pulled him underwater. The report examines deck layout, personal flotation, alarm access, self-recovery and risk assessment, and discusses outstanding industry recommendations on single-handed fishing safety guidance.
- 20253 Jul
Grounding and subsequent loss of the prawn trawler Sustain
Investigation into Sustain’s grounding in Loch Broom and subsequent constructive total loss. It examines the skipper’s accumulated sleep debt, overnight repairs, lone watchkeeping and navigation by eye using a magnetic-compass autopilot. Unimplemented risk controls, absent watch alarms and inadequate passage planning are analysed; the crew were evacuated unharmed.
- 202519 Jun
Fatal accident on the beam trawler Cornishman with loss of 1 life
Investigation material examines the fatal failure of Cornishman’s trawl quick-release chain, including corrosion, side loading and material properties. Technical annexes document magnetic particle inspection, metallography, hardness and break-load testing. Recommendations address inspection, fabrication quality and consideration of alternative release designs; an annex discusses the separate Honeybourne III accident.
- 202527 Feb
Grounding and capsize of creel fishing vessel Lexi Rose with loss of 1 life
Investigation into the fatal grounding and capsize of Lexi Rose at Melrose Point. The report examines likely outboard lower-unit impact damage, loss of propulsion in swell, and constraints on single-handed emergency actions. It discusses distress radio use, anchoring limitations and the survival benefits of wearing a personal flotation device.
- 2025
MAIB Safety Digest 1/2025
A marine safety digest examining merchant, fishing and recreational vessel casualties, including collisions, groundings, fires, capsizes and people entering the water. Case lessons address navigation, mooring, towage, maintenance and emergency preparedness, with detailed discussion of flotation-device entanglement, battery charging, fuel hoses and vessel modifications. Reproduced bulletins and flyers provide further incident-specific learning.
- 20244 Dec
Man overboard from potting vessel Pioneer with loss of 1 life
Investigation of the fatal overboard incident from Pioneer south of Hastings examines low bulwarks, unworn flotation devices, unsuccessful manual recovery and delayed distress communication. The initial fall mechanism remains uncertain. Findings address deficient risk assessment, emergency drills, safety training and fishing-vessel inspection and deficiency close-out arrangements.
- 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.
- 20245 Sep
Safety warning issued following a man overboard from potting vessel Kingfisher with loss of 1 life
This bulletin presents initial findings after a Kingfisher deckhand was pulled overboard during creel shooting. A creel leg rope threaded through his flotation device’s lifting strop connected him to the backrope. It calls for deck risk assessment reviews and task-appropriate flotation devices, while warning against unauthorised modifications that compromise recovery arrangements.
- 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.
- 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.
- 202427 Mar
USCG: hazard from discarded munitions
This flash relays a US Coastguard alert about discarded munitions in coastal waters. A clamming-vessel deckhand suffered severe burns after a canister, likely containing mustard gas or another blistering agent, came aboard. Recommendations cover checking charts, avoiding marked dumping areas, recording encounters and reporting unexploded munitions.
- 20248 Feb
Fall overboard from fishing vessel Eder Sands with loss of 1 life
Investigates a fatal fall overboard during net shooting west of Ireland. The report examines unguarded working positions, undocumented procedures and inadequate risk assessments. Lifejacket trials support the probable loss of a loosely fitted lifejacket. Recommendations address flotation-device suitability, correct wearing, vessel-specific procedures and consideration of personal locator beacons.
- 20247 Feb
Safety warning issued following a chain failure on scallop dredger Honeybourne III with loss of 1 life
This safety bulletin examines a fatal deckhand injury aboard Honeybourne III after a quick-release chain failed during dredging gear retrieval. It discusses wear and inspection difficulties where chains pass over static derrick-head pins, alternative release arrangements, and recommendations for urgent documented risk assessment, mitigation and crew communication.
- 2024
MAIB Safety Digest 1/2024
This marine accident digest presents lessons from merchant shipping, commercial fishing and recreational craft incidents. Cases examine pilot ladders, navigation, mooring machinery, suspended loads, falls and recovery from the water. Reproduced bulletins and flyers address RIB passenger injuries, dredging-chain failures, fire-extinguishing systems and flotation-device suitability.
- 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.
- 202329 Jun
Person overboard from stern trawler Copious with loss of 1 life
Investigation of a fatal fall overboard from Copious during a trawl-gear repair on the aft bulwark. It examines inadequate risk assessment, cold-water incapacitation, incorrect lifejacket fit and unsuccessful recovery. Analysis highlights limitations of the Markusnet arrangements and drills for unconscious casualties, alongside subsequent owner actions and regulatory recommendations.
- 202322 Jun
Person overboard from creel fishing vessel Harriet J with loss of 1 life
This investigation examines the fatal overboard accident involving Harriet J’s lone skipper off south-east Scotland. He probably became caught in a chain weight while deploying creels. The report analyses deck segregation, inability to reboard, unworn flotation and locator equipment, cold incapacitation, rescue efforts and dissemination of guidance for lone-operated fishing vessels.
- 2023May
Risk to offshore installation mooring lines outside 500m safety zone
This safety notice addresses trawling and navigation risks to floating offshore installation moorings beyond 500 m safety zones. It describes collisions and fishing-gear snagging despite warnings, and calls for clear information on mooring spreads and conditional snagging hazards, alongside review of collision risk management and emergency response arrangements.
- 2023
CHIRP Fisher Feedback Autumn 2023
CHIRP’s first commercial fishing newsletter examines pot-line propeller fouling, a conveyor fingertip injury, a lone fisher falling overboard, failed trawl hoisting, a ferry collision and recovered unexploded ordnance. Case commentary discusses maintenance isolation, work communication, wire-rope inspection, harbour navigation and personal emergency signalling and self-rescue arrangements.
- 2023
CHIRP Maritime FEEDBACK 72 (Autumn 2023)
This maritime digest examines an averted mooring-line failure, a lithium-ion battery cargo fire, contractor fatigue, a diver’s propeller injury, tanker engine-control difficulties and a fisher’s overboard rescue. It discusses mooring design, dangerous-goods packing, rest arrangements, diver visibility, emergency teamwork and personal rescue equipment, alongside two improper cargo-stowage reports.
- 2023
MAIB Safety Digest 1/2023
This marine accident digest examines merchant shipping, commercial fishing and recreational boating casualties. Cases address navigation, machinery maintenance, lifting, fires and people overboard. Lessons emphasise clear control indications, practical recovery drills, effective firefighting arrangements and implementation of risk assessments, with reproduced fishing safety flyers discussing personal distress beacons.
- 2023
MAIB Safety Digest 2/2023
A multi-case marine safety digest draws lessons from navigation incidents, fires, falls, cargo lifting, mooring injuries and fishing casualties. Case analyses examine communication, electrical work, lifejacket use and recovery arrangements. Reproduced bulletins and flyers address fuel-hose modifications, liferaft servicing, carbon monoxide poisoning and fatal man-overboard incidents.
- 202216 Dec
Persons overboard from prawn trawler Reul A Chuain with loss of 1 life
Investigates two falls overboard from the prawn trawler Reul A Chuain in the Sound of Rùm, resulting in the skipper’s death. Examines unsecured net stowage, manual recovery in heavy weather, absent restraint arrangements, flotation device use, cold-water survival and improvised winch recovery. Identified risk controls and practical emergency drills had not been implemented.
- 202226 Sep
MAIB: Capsize and sinking of fishing vessel Joanna C – vessel stability
This safety flash summarises MAIB findings on Joanna C’s fatal capsize while recovering scallop dredges snagged on a potting line. Through-life modifications had reduced stability, with assessment left unfinished. It also examines the liferaft’s failure to inflate and highlights stability implications of modifications and float-free lifesaving arrangements.
- 202222 Sep
Capsize of single-handed creel fishing vessel Goodway with loss of 1 life
Investigation into Goodway’s unwitnessed capsize near Cairnbulg and the presumed loss of its lone owner. The report identifies freeing snagged creels using engine power as the most likely sequence, examines cold-water survival and reboarding arrangements, and explains why the purchased AIS/DSC personal locator beacon was unsuitable as an EPIRB alternative.
- 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.
- 202216 Jun
Person overboard from single-handed creel fishing vessel Saint Peter with loss of 1 life
Investigates the fatal overboard accident involving Saint Peter’s lone skipper during creel shooting near Torness Point. Probable rope entanglement, cold-water shock and inability to reboard are examined. The report analyses deck separation, flotation, boarding arrangements and distress signalling, finding that the inflated flotation device prevented drowning but did not ensure survival.
- 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.
- 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.
- 2022
MAIB Safety Digest 2/2022
A collection of marine accident lessons covering merchant ships, fishing vessels and recreational craft. Cases examine groundings, fires, towing and lifting failures, flooding, capsize and people overboard. Reproduced bulletins and flyers discuss blocked CO2 pilot hoses, vessel stability, flotation and distress alerting, alongside navigation, training and equipment checks.
- 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.
- 202111 May
Crush incident on scallop dredger Olivia Jean with loss of 1 life
Investigates a fatal head injury aboard scallop dredger Olivia Jean during attempts to free snagged dredge gear. The engineer was probably struck by a towing bar swinging inboard. Analysis examines deck supervision, restricted winch-operator visibility, language barriers, training, risk reassessment and weak safety management, alongside subsequent actions and recommendations.
- 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.
- 2021Mar
FAO – their role in international fishing safety standards 28.03.2021
This maritime insight article explains FAO’s contribution to international fishing safety standards, decent working conditions and small-scale fisher training. It discusses revised global fatality estimates, limitations in accident reporting, practical radio and GPS drills, and collaboration to develop fisheries accident and fatality data systems.
- 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.
- 2020Oct
MAIB Safety Digest 2/2020
A collection of marine accident lessons covering merchant vessels, commercial fishing and recreational craft. Cases examine collisions, grounding, machinery failures, overboard accidents, scalding and fire. Discussions address navigation information, lifejackets, maintenance checks and recovery arrangements. An appended provisional bulletin considers precautions for condensed aerosol fire-extinguishing systems.
- 20202 Sep
Man overboard from single-handed creel boat May C with loss of 1 life
Investigates the fatal overboard accident involving May C’s lone skipper at Loch Carnan. The unwitnessed fall most likely occurred while clearing propeller fouling. Analysis addresses cold-water incapacitation, the absence of worn flotation and a carried locator beacon, self-rescue arrangements and difficulties recovering an unconscious person.
- 20207 Jul
Capsize of fishing vessel Anna-Marie II with loss of 1 life
MAIB investigates the fatal capsize of Anna-Marie II while crossing the bar at Brora river entrance. The report examines broaching in unusually high waves, insufficient stability, local risk perception and lifejacket non-use. It also analyses rescue efforts and fishing safety training, with no recommendations made.
- 201915 Nov
Man overboard from single-handed creel boat Sea Mist with loss of 1 life
Investigates the fatal overboard accident involving Sea Mist’s lone skipper near Macduff. Fishing gear entanglement pulled him into the water without a personal flotation device. The report examines rope-cut evidence, possible drowning circumstances, cold-water effects and rescue efforts, emphasising separation from fishing gear and improved dissemination of single-handed fishing guidance.
- 2019Oct
MAIB Safety Digest 2/2019
A collection of marine accident lessons spanning merchant shipping, commercial fishing and recreational boating. Cases examine collisions, grounding, machinery failures, falls, fires and people overboard. Discussions emphasise passage planning, bridge teamwork, equipment maintenance, lifejackets, realistic recovery arrangements and emergency drills, with reproduced bulletins on vehicle-deck safety and retractable ballast securing.
- 201927 Jun
Man overboard from potter Fram of Shieldaig with loss of 1 life
This investigation examines a deckhand’s fatal entry into Loch Torridon from Fram of Shieldaig’s tender. The unwitnessed fall probably occurred while securing the tender alongside. It analyses lifejacket non-use, cold-water immersion, alcohol impairment and difficulties recovering an unconscious casualty, alongside incomplete risk assessments and absent regular emergency drills.
- 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.
- 20186 Dec
Capsize and sinking of fishing vessel Solstice with loss of 1 life
Investigation of Solstice’s fatal capsize during stern recovery of a heavy catch south of Plymouth. It examines inadequate transverse stability, suspended-load geometry, deck water and recent fishing-method changes. The report also analyses escape arrangements and search-and-rescue coordination, including delayed telephone data, uncharted sightings and coastguard information systems.
- 20188 Nov
Man overboard from creel fishing vessel North Star with loss of 1 life
Investigates a fatal drowning after a North Star crewman became entangled in the back rope during creel shooting and was dragged overboard. Examines manual and self-shooting arrangements, inadequate separation from running ropes, recovery difficulties, absent practical drills and unshared risk assessments. Records subsequent barrier installation and recommendations on training and safety management.
- 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.
- 20183 Jul
Man overboard from creel fishing vessel Varuna with loss of 1 life
Investigation of a fatal probable man-overboard incident from the single-handed creel boat Varuna off north-west Scotland. The precise circumstances remain unknown. The report examines the open transom shooting gate, absence of worn flotation and a personal locator beacon, non-functioning AIS, search arrangements, risk assessment and regulatory oversight.
- 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.
- 201810 Apr
Man overboard from potter Enterprise with loss of 1 life
MAIB investigates a fatal entanglement during self-shooting of pots aboard Enterprise near Scarborough. A moving backrope dragged a deckhand overboard after he left a safe area. The report examines potting procedures, unsuccessful recovery using the pot hauler, flotation limitations and distress-radio arrangements. No recommendations were made.
- 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.
- 20176 Jul
Accident on the twin rig prawn trawler Sea Harvester with 1 person seriously injured
An investigation into a deckhand’s serious head injury during recovery of snagged prawn-trawling gear in the Firth of Clyde. A tensioned bridle and vessel motion expelled a guide-pole from its socket. The report examines pole construction and securing, protective equipment, crew training, regulatory compliance and uncertain wreck-position information.
- 20174 May
Man overboard from potting fishing vessel Pauline Mary with the loss of 1 life
MAIB investigates a fatal entanglement during manual pot shooting aboard Pauline Mary east of Hartlepool. The report examines deck loading, separation of crew from ropes, unavailable knives, unworn flotation devices and an unshared risk assessment. It also analyses recovery attempts, distress communications and passenger distraction, recommending updated passenger-carriage guidance.
- 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.
- 20172 Mar
Man overboard from scallop dredger King Challenger with loss of 1 life
MAIB investigates a fatal fall overboard from King Challenger during access to a damaged scallop dredge bag near Shetland. The report examines tipping-door repair practices, omitted maintenance risks, lifejacket use, rapid cold-water incapacitation and unpractised casualty recovery. It records revised repair methods and recommends reviewing fleet risk assessments.
- 20168 Dec
Man overboard from potter Our Sarah Jane with loss of 1 life
Investigates a deckhand’s fatal entry into the English Channel to free Our Sarah Jane’s fouled propeller. Examines probable cold water shock, possible drug-related effects on decision-making, and unsuccessful recovery attempts. Identifies shortcomings in lifebuoy availability, buoyant lifelines and emergency preparedness, alongside concerns about personal flotation device use.
- 20163 Nov
Man overboard from creel fishing vessel Annie T with loss of 1 life
Material accompanying the Annie T fatal man-overboard investigation addresses potting hazards, recovery arrangements and lifejacket use. It describes unused working lifejackets and an unsuccessful hauler recovery attempt. Annexed guidance examines rope separation, pot sequencing and drills, while a broader review evaluates flotation-device campaigns, casualty evidence and regulatory approaches.
- 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.
- 20163 Nov
Man overboard from stern trawler Apollo with loss of 1 life
Investigation of a fatal fall overboard from Apollo during net hauling in rough seas near Orkney. It examines an exposed stern ledge, shooting-pole removal, unimplemented risk controls, absent flotation protection and cold-water incapacitation. Recovery attempts and inadequate practical drills inform recommendations for safer deck work and realistic casualty recovery exercises.
- 201612 Oct
Collision between the stern trawler Karen and a dived Royal Navy submarine
Investigation of a submerged Royal Navy submarine snagging Karen’s trawling gear in the Irish Sea. It examines mistaken acoustic classification, passive-sonar limitations, passage appraisal, warp and winch behaviour, and the crew’s response. Restricted access to primary evidence limited causal findings; recommendations address submarine procedures, training and fishing-vessel guidance.
- 20166 Oct
Man overboard from twin rig trawler Aquarius with loss of 1 life
Investigates a fatal overboard accident east of Aberdeen during trawl-warp marking aboard Aquarius. A fibre-rope stopper failed, causing the warp to tighten and throw a crewman into the sea. Analysis examines stoppering practice, absent flotation protection, inadequate recovery preparation, fragmented rest, risk assessment shortcomings and poor onboard safety culture.
- 2016Oct
MAIB Safety Digest 2/2016
This digest draws preventive lessons from merchant, fishing and recreational vessel accidents. Cases examine groundings, collisions, capsizing, flooding, machinery injuries and fires. Analysis addresses passage planning, bridge communication, maintenance, risk assessment and emergency checklists, alongside flotation equipment and distress beacons. A reproduced bulletin discusses carbon monoxide poisoning aboard a motor cruiser.
- 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.
- 201622 Jun
Man overboard from stern trawler Enterprise with loss of 1 life
Investigates the fatal loss of Enterprise’s skipper during net repairs in rough North Sea weather. The report examines unprotected shooting ports, slippery footing, absent lifejacket use and inadequate risk assessment. It analyses difficulties with casualty recovery, delayed distress alerting and insufficient preparation for the skipper’s incapacitation.
- 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.
- 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.
- 201510 Dec
Capsize and sinking of stern trawler Stella Maris
Investigation of Stella Maris’s capsize and sinking east of Sunderland examines insufficient stability during cod-end lifting, a high gantry and excessive winch power. It evaluates modification oversight, flooding, liferaft arrangements and distress alerting, comparing simplified stability methods with a sister-vessel inclining assessment. Both crew were rescued uninjured.
- 20152 Dec
Person overboard from twin rig trawler Beryl with loss of 1 life
Investigates a fatal overboard accident on Beryl after a deckhand stood on a trawl net while freeing a snagged float. Examines unsuccessful recovery attempts, lifejacket use, Markusnet limitations, rough-sea conditions and cold exposure. Recommendations address realistic recovery drills, equipment familiarity and using risk assessments to influence behaviour.
- 201518 Nov
Capsize and sinking of stern trawler Ocean Way with loss of 3 lives
Investigates Ocean Way’s capsize and sinking, with two survivors and three crew lost. Analysis links broaching in following seas to reduced stability from retained deck water. ROV inspection and computer modelling inform findings on freeing ports, stability surveys, emergency beacon positioning, search coordination and cold-water survival.
- 20159 Jul
Collision between chemical tanker Orakai and beam trawler Margriet
Investigation of a North Sea collision between chemical tanker Orakai and beam trawler Margriet. It examines ineffective lookout, the tanker officer’s absence from the bridge, radar monitoring and possible fatigue. Margriet suffered serious damage; no injuries occurred. Recommendations address navigational watchkeeping and relief arrangements for officers leaving the bridge.
- 20154 Jun
Accident to skipper of scallop dredger Ronan Orla with loss of 1 life
MAIB investigates fatal winch entanglement during single-handed scallop dredge recovery aboard Ronan Orla off north Wales. The exact snagging mechanism remained inconclusive. Analysis examines poor winch condition, inaccessible controls, absent emergency stops and lone-working risks, with recommendations addressing safety training and fishing-vessel self-certification.
- 201512 Feb
Accident while emptying catch from dredges on scallop dredger Wanderer II with 1 person injured
Investigation into a deckhand’s serious hand injury during scallop dredge emptying aboard Wanderer II. It examines rope entrapment at a whipping drum, inaccessible winch controls, training and risk-assessment shortcomings. The report discusses rope guides, captive-drum conversion and arrangements for trained operators and crew communication.
- 201511 Feb
Contact made by scallop dredger Diamond with rock resulting in vessel sinking with loss of 1 life
Investigation of Diamond’s grounding and rapid sinking in West Burra Firth, Shetland, with one crewman dying. It examines navigation outside the safe channel, hull damage and non-watertight subdivision, drug-related impairment, survival equipment and missing sea survival training. A dive survey documented damage; no recommendations were made.
- 201529 Jan
Disappearance and rescue of small fishing vessel Water-rail
Water-rail became lost in fog during a creel-fishing voyage and its two occupants were rescued by a passing trawler on 22 May 2014. The investigation examines incorrect compass use, absent electronic communications, crew competence and search planning. Recommendations address navigation training, distress equipment and personal flotation devices.
- 2015Jan
Person overboard from creeler Barnacle III with loss of 1 life
Investigates a fatal overboard accident on Barnacle III west of Tanera Beg during creel shooting. The crew member’s right leg probably caught in a buoy line. Analysis contrasts one- and two-fleet deck arrangements, examining separation from running gear, risk assessment, flotation devices, recovery and timely Coastguard notification.
- 2014Oct
MAIB Safety Digest 2/2014
A collection of marine accident accounts and preventive lessons covering merchant vessels, fishing boats and small craft. Cases examine groundings, collisions, fires, flooding, mooring injuries and rescue difficulties. Discussions address navigation equipment, watchkeeping fatigue, crew coordination, emergency drills and equipment readiness, with an appended bulletin on oxygen depletion and unsafe rescue attempts.
- 2014Aug
Capsize and sinking of beam trawler Sally Jane
Investigation of Sally Jane’s capsize and sinking in Christchurch Bay while beam trawling. Probable unequal net loading and derrick geometry contributed to stability loss; unsecured hatches accelerated flooding. The report examines stability information, winch operation, liferaft escape and beacon failure. Both crew members survived with mild hypothermia; no recommendations were issued.
- 2014Jul
Collision between stern trawlers Karen and Sapphire Stone resulting in Karen sinking
This investigation examines the collision between Sapphire Stone and Karen near Campbeltown, followed by Karen’s rapid flooding and sinking. It analyses inadequate lookout, unsystematic radar observation, reliance on AIS and obstructed visibility. It also examines crew rescue, distress signalling and EPIRB activation, recommending improved watchkeeping using existing maritime guidance.