Activity
Towing
Moving vessels or floating assets by towing.
Newest 100 Documents
All 104 in search- 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.
- 20263 Mar
Towing wire parted
A towing wire failed during barge manoeuvring after earlier snagging damage. Its excessive length for shallow water allowed it to drag along the seabed. The crew continued safely using an alternative wire. Lessons emphasise matching wire length to water depth and stopping to repair damaged equipment before resuming work.
- 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.
- 202518 Jun
NTSB: Vessel crane contact with shore-side crane
This safety flash summarises an NTSB investigation into a crane barge contacting a dockside crane while being pushed at North Charleston Terminal. The probable cause was failure to identify the overhead hazard. Lessons highlight projecting dockside cranes, vessel air draft and bridge crews’ knowledge of vessel dimensions.
- 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.
- 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.
- 2024
CHIRP Maritime FEEDBACK 76 (Autumn 2024)
This maritime digest examines unauthorised enclosed-space entry, tug propulsion failure during LNG berthing, suspected officer fatigue, rotating-shaft hazards, inadequate provisions, deficient dynamic-positioning capability and departure in strong winds. Case commentary contrasts effective teamwork and stop-work intervention with commercial pressure and weak safety culture, highlighting entry permits, towing configuration and position-reference requirements.
- 2023Sep
Manage risk of damage to grating systems (walkways and deck areas) on offshore installations during rig moves
This alert addresses damage or displacement of offshore walkway and deck gratings during rig moves, including adverse weather and wave impact. It calls for assessment across operating modes, regular inspection and maintenance, competent personnel, fatigue controls and emergency arrangements for missing persons or people overboard.
- 202324 May
Painter line snapped and hit crew member in the face
A safety flash describes a painter line breaking during towing, with its flying end striking a worker’s face and destroying his safety glasses. The helmet and glasses may have prevented more serious injury. Investigation remained ongoing, and the notice emphasises the importance of personal protective equipment.
- 20234 May
Deck grating dislodged under wave action and forced up the side of the hull
During a jackup rig’s wet tow, waves driven up the hull dislodged deck grating immediately outside a living-quarters exit. The grating formed part of a platform directly over water, more than 20 ft above the rig’s floating draft. Recorded significant wave height was 8–10 ft.
- 2023
CHIRP Maritime FEEDBACK 70 (Spring 2023)
This maritime incident digest examines single points of safety failure through reports of grounding, steering loss, unsafe fendering, towing difficulties, coercion, obstructed access, collision, maintenance injury, lifting failure and battery fire. Commentary addresses bridge teamwork, workload, isolation, inspection access and emergency arrangements, with practical lessons for vessel crews and managers.
- 2023
CHIRP Superyacht FEEDBACK 2 (Spring 2023)
Six superyacht reports examine authority gradients, guest distractions and safety culture through a deck slip, navigational near misses, tender lifting failure, towing capsize and lithium-ion battery fire. Commentary discusses constructive challenge, safe access, inspection limitations, lifejackets, emergency communications and fire response, contrasting weak practices with effective crew action.
- 202222 Dec
Failure of towline pennant on tug Svitzer Mercurius with minor injuries to 5 crew
Investigation of a towline pennant failure aboard Svitzer Mercurius in Southampton, where recoil shattered a wheelhouse window and glass injured five crew. The report examines hidden synthetic-rope damage, winch brake slippage, inspection and fleet-induction shortcomings, and considers laminated glazing and risk assessment for wheelhouse impact protection.
- 202226 Sep
American P&I Club: Vessel grounding – fatigue was a factor
A towing vessel pulling a deck barge grounded on a shoal after the Mate fell asleep on watch. The flash discusses disrupted rest, inaccurate work/rest records and unused ECDIS alarms. Lessons emphasise adequate rest, honest recording of working hours, assistance when struggling to remain alert and correct alarm settings.
- 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.
- 2022
CHIRP Annual Digest 2022
A compilation of maritime cases published during 2022, with commentary and supporting insight articles. Reports examine navigation, pilot boarding, mooring, towing, engineering maintenance and working conditions. Discussions address communication, bridge-team challenge, pressurised equipment, harness arrangements, risk assessment, permits and training, alongside examples of unsafe practice and effective intervention.
- 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.
- 20211 Oct
NTSB: Collision leading to loss of life and damage
This flash summarises a Mississippi river towing collision that capsized one vessel, left three crew members presumed dead and caused fuel and vapour releases. It reports insufficient pilot radio communication and inaccurate AIS tow-size information as probable causes, emphasising adequate communication and current information across operational interfaces.
- 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.
- 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.
- 202012 Aug
Grounding and recovery of container feeder vessel Thea II and tug Svitzer Josephine
Investigation of the grounding and recovery of Thea II and Svitzer Josephine in the Humber following propulsion failure. It examines anchor deployment, tug positional awareness, navigation practices and salvage delays arising from managers’ limited situational awareness. The report also analyses discarded towline fouling and recommends reviewing the ship manager’s emergency response arrangements.
- 202023 Jun
USCG: Automatic identification system (AIS) inaccuracies led to fatalities
This flash describes a fatal collision between towing vessels approaching a Mississippi River bend in darkness. Their AIS broadcasts omitted full tow lengths, limiting operators’ understanding of the passing situation. It highlights accurate vessel data entry and display, and summarises SOLAS requirements for AIS carriage and operation.
- 202028 Apr
Fire in engine room and subsequent collision with structure on transport barge
A tug suffered an engine-room fire after fuel oil escaped during pressure testing and ignited on hot engines. A blackout preceded collision with a structure protruding from the transport barge. The flash examines failed emergency and fire systems, permit shortcomings and recommendations for controlling non-standard work and improving crew familiarisation.
- 201917 Dec
Unknown floating objects in 500m safety zone
A fast rescue craft sustained propeller damage while removing or towing unidentified floating objects from an installation’s 500 m safety zone. The flash recommends assessing hazards before intervention, reporting potentially hazardous objects to emergency response services, following relevant agreements and maintaining crew vigilance for floating objects.
- 201931 Jul
Grounding of bulk carrier Kuzma Minin
Investigation of Kuzma Minin’s grounding in Falmouth Bay after its anchor dragged in strong winds and swell. It examines limited fuel and lubricating oil supplies, distraction from a fouled anchor, and harbour-led refloating. The report also analyses how absent insurance and owner support complicated salvage arrangements and financial responsibility.
- 201817 Oct
Heavy contact made by container vessel CMA CGM Centaurus with quay and shore cranes
Investigation of CMA CGM Centaurus striking a pontoon and shore cranes at Jebel Ali, causing crane collapse and ten injuries. Simulator trials examined turning performance. Findings address excessive approach speed, unavailable tug assistance, deficient master–pilot information exchange, absent shared planning and pressure to complete pilotage quickly.
- 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.
- 201831 Jan
Fast rescue craft damaged by inappropriate use
During a joint offshore oil spill response exercise, a fast rescue craft was used to reposition oil booms by towing. Its mooring bollard failed under tension. The flash identifies inadequate consideration of the craft’s suitability during planning and risk assessment, stating that a suitable work boat should have been used.
- 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.
- 20176 Sep
Grounding of semi-submersible rig Transocean Winner after the loss of tow from tug ALP Forward
Investigation of Transocean Winner’s grounding off the Isle of Lewis after loss of tow from ALP Forward. Analysis examines weather-driven loss of control, deteriorated wire rope, catenary and shock loading, missing windage information, passage planning and emergency towing limitations. Recommendations address towing procedures, reporting and tow-line maintenance.
- 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.
- 20179 Jun
Engine room emergency hatch damage
An AHTS vessel’s towing line caught an open engine-room emergency hatch during barge towing. The hatch had been left open because of inadequate ventilation. The flash identifies missed watertight-opening inspections, unreported ventilation problems and smaller replacement stern fenders, and recommends repairs, reinstatement of original fenders and crew training.
- 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.
- 201629 Nov
Don’t lose your tow in heavy weather
This safety flash highlights planning for significant towing operations through the groundings of Kulluk in Alaska and Transocean Winter near the Isle of Lewis. It points readers to investigations and a workgroup report addressing towage of mobile offshore drilling units in high-latitude environments, with wider relevance to offshore engineering.
- 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.
- 201618 Apr
Mooring near-miss: Lines break during un-docking operation
This safety flash describes two synthetic mooring ropes parting while used as tug lines during undocking. No crew were standing at the connection area, and no injuries occurred. Investigation found no prior signs of rope damage; the ropes had been in service since the vessel’s delivery in 2005.
- 201618 Apr
Vessel in collision with floating dock
A multi-purpose support vessel struck a floating dock during towage to a graving dock, causing damage without injuries. The account describes an unannounced forward tug departure, unsuccessful communications and unavailable thrusters during repairs. Recommendations address docking risk assessment, stop-work authority and pre-task planning involving all work parties.
- 2016Feb
Insituburn Man
User manual for the Estimated Burn System Potential calculator, explaining inputs, assumptions, equations and outputs for advancing oil-spill burning systems. It covers towed fire booms, enhanced collection, burn-cycle timelines and continuous and batch spill examples. Calculated removal potential supports planning rather than measuring actual response performance.
- 201517 Jun
Collision between passenger vessel Millennium Time and motor tug Redoubt
Investigation of a Thames collision involving Millennium Time, Redoubt and towed barges, leaving nine passengers with minor injuries. Analysis examines steering responsiveness, absent rudder indication, helm competence, supervision and possible hydrodynamic interaction. It also addresses evacuation readiness, watertight-integrity checks and inaccurate passenger reporting, with steering trials informing subsequent improvements.
- 2014Oct
Collision between multipurpose cargo vessel Rickmers Dubai with a crane barge, Walcon Wizard, being towed by tug Kingston
Investigation of Rickmers Dubai’s collision with the crane barge Walcon Wizard while overtaking Kingston and its tow. It examines navigation and lookout failures, reliance on AIS information displayed on ECDIS, towing-light visibility, and emergency towline release limitations. The gob rope prevented Kingston from capsizing; no injuries or pollution occurred.
- 2014Jun
Person overboard from motor tug Endurance while crossing to unmanned motor cruiser Sirius M with loss of 1 life
Investigates a fatal fall into the sea during an attempted transfer from Endurance to unmanned cruiser Sirius M after towline failure. Examines towline chafe, towing practice, unsuccessful recovery, flotation protection, likely fatigue effects and qualification deficiencies, alongside shortcomings in vessel surveys, certification scrutiny and port oversight.
- 2014Apr
Collision between tug Christos XXII and its tow, former fisheries protection vessel Emsstrom which later sank
Investigation of a tug–tow collision off Hope’s Nose during anchoring to investigate Emsstrom’s list. The report examines overlooked tidal effects, limited company crisis support and flooding aboard Christos XXII, including pumping and evacuation. Emsstrom subsequently sank; the cause of its list remained unknown. A company crisis response cell is recommended.
- 2014Feb
Grounding of twin-rig stern trawler Prospect and subsequent sinking while under tow
Investigation of Prospect’s grounding at Skibby Baas and subsequent foundering during towage at Lerwick Harbour. It examines inadequate passage planning and monitoring, telephone distraction, possible alcohol effects, flooding and uncertain stability. Recommendations address navigation refresher training, compliant electronic charts, watchkeeping practices and monthly emergency drills. No injuries or pollution occurred.
- 2013Oct
Contact made by bulk carrier Amber with moored barges and its subsequent grounding
Investigates Amber’s contact with moored craft and subsequent grounding in Gravesend Reach during departure in dense fog. Examines bridge-team role allocation, radar availability and unfamiliarity, master–pilot communication and tug operations. It also assesses premature refloating attempts and sets out recommendations addressing training, operational procedures and damage assessment.
- 2013Jul
Slipped messenger line while securing tug tow wire on bulk carrier Wah Shan with loss of 1 life
Investigation of a fatal accident while securing a tug’s tow wire aboard Wah Shan. Investigators considered a slipping messenger line striking the carpenter’s neck the most likely mechanism. The report examines warping-drum turns, fairlead routing, obstructed visibility, missing task-specific risk assessment, supervision and subsequent training measures.
- 2012Dec
Series of accidents including windlass damage, grounding and 1 person injured on ro-ro cargo ferry Norcape
Investigation of Norcape’s windlass damage, grounding and crew injury during operations around Troon and Brodick Bay in November 2011. It examines anchoring loads and securing arrangements, vessel handling, tug coordination and propeller fouling during rope recovery. Recommendations address familiarisation, passage planning, manoeuvring-console information and emergency response.
- 2012Oct
MAIB Safety Digest 2/2012
A collection of marine accident narratives and lessons for merchant vessels, fishing boats and small craft. Cases examine collisions, groundings, mooring fatalities, fires, equipment failures and people overboard. Discussion covers ECDIS alarms, rope condition, rescue-craft recovery, passage planning, risk assessment and emergency drills. Appendix coverage dates concern investigations started, not the case incidents.
- 2012Jun
Contact made by ro-ro cargo ferry Clipper Point with quay and 2 berthed ships
Investigates Clipper Point’s contacts during manoeuvring at Heysham on 24 May 2011. The report examines wind effects, unavailable bow-thruster capacity, limited tug assistance, bridge teamwork and console control transfer. It identifies weaknesses in operational limits, training, contingency planning and port risk assessment.
- 2012May
Collision between tug Chiefton and its tow resulting in tug capsizing and sinking with loss of 1 life
Investigation of Chiefton’s fatal collision with its barge tow at Greenwich Reach on the River Thames. It examines combined push/pull towage, short ropes, limited reserve power, situational awareness and whole-passage planning. Analysis also addresses watertight closures, the emergency towing-hook release and lifejacket use following the capsize and sinking.
- 2011Nov
Contact made by container vessel CMA CGM Platon with wharf
Investigation of CMA CGM Platon’s contact with Bevans Wharf during departure from Tilbury. It examines complex tidal flows, delayed helm application, early tug release and limited master–pilot discussion. Simulator exercises informed the analysis, with recommendations addressing tug retention and findings on dissemination of pilotage lessons.
- 2011Jul
Fall from banana boat being towed by ski boat with loss of 1 life
Investigation of a fatal banana-boat accident at Princes Club, Bedfont, in which a child fell into the lake and was struck by the towing boat and propeller. Analysis examines absent rider observation, poor helmet visibility, restricted driver sightlines, training, risk assessment, emergency preparedness and ambiguous commercial licensing requirements.
- 2011Jun
Contact made by bulk carrier Antonis with swing bridge
Investigation of Antonis striking a swing-bridge counterweight while manoeuvring stern-first through Liverpool’s dock system with tug assistance. Wind-driven stern drift led to hull damage and about 330 tonnes of fuel oil entering the docks. The report examines pilotage constraints, unrecognised bridge hazards, deficient risk assessment and planned protective measures.
- 201027 Sep
Tug capsized during operations
A stern tug girted and capsized while assisting a heavily laden barge entering port; its crew escaped uninjured. The flash discusses unstable stern towing, excessive speed, absent gob wire, emergency-release unfamiliarity and inadequate coordination. Lessons address towing arrangements, competence, risk assessment, toolbox talks and working-time compliance.
- 2010Apr
Girting and capsize of tug Ijsselstroom
Investigation of Ijsselstroom’s girting, capsize and sinking at Peterhead during stern towing while moving astern. It examines hydrodynamic and static stability, absent bridle protection, towing-winch release arrangements and wheelhouse ergonomics. Findings and recommendations address skipper training, operational briefings, risk assessment and port oversight; fatigue was not considered contributory.
- 2009Aug
MAIB Safety Digest 2/2009
A collection of preventive lessons from merchant-vessel, fishing and small-craft accidents. Cases examine collisions, fires, flooding, capsizing and people overboard, alongside navigation, towing and maintenance. Lessons address vessel-specific risk assessment, bridge teamwork, electrical isolation, watertight-door operation, lifejacket use and correct preparation of survival equipment.
- 2008Dec
MAIB Safety Digest 3/2008
A collection of merchant, fishing and leisure-vessel accidents examines navigation, towing, machinery failures, fires, flooding and drowning. Lessons address bridge controls, equipment testing, communication, watertight integrity and properly worn lifejackets. A reproduced safety bulletin highlights fatal enclosed-space entry and oxygen depletion.
- 2008Sep
Girting and capsize of tug Flying Phantom while towing bulk carrier Red Jasmine with 1 person injured and loss of 3 lives
Investigation of Flying Phantom’s fatal girting and capsize while assisting Red Jasmine on the River Clyde in thick fog. It examines delayed towing-winch emergency release, reduced stability with an open watertight door, blind-pilotage arrangements and deficient port risk management. Recommendations address restricted-visibility towage limits, training and independent safety-management assurance.
- 2008Apr
MAIB Safety Digest 1/2008
Marine accident case studies examine groundings, collisions, mooring injuries, fires, fishing machinery hazards and leisure-craft casualties. Lessons address chart provenance, radar limitations, lookout, line handling, machinery guarding and emergency recovery. Cases also explore flooding, vessel modifications, carbon-monoxide poisoning and communication when inexperienced crew take temporary charge.
- 20084 Feb
Finger injury whilst casting off towing line
A crew member injured fingers while releasing a towing line from a vessel’s forecastle bollard. Sudden swell moved the vessel astern, tensioning the line and trapping the hand. The flash highlights weather-aware risk assessment and the use of a warping drum or, where unavailable, rope or chain stoppers.
- 2007Apr
MAIB Safety Digest 1/2007
This digest presents lessons from accidents involving merchant ships, fishing vessels and leisure craft. Cases examine groundings, collisions, fires, machinery failures and people falling overboard. Discussions cover bridge teamwork, fatigue, passage planning, pilot ladders, emergency steering, fire response, lifejacket use and recovery from the water.
- 2007
Jack-up (self-elevating) installations: floating damage stability survivability
This information sheet addresses research indicating that existing jack-up damage-stability survivability criteria may be inadequate in certain environmental conditions. It advises reassessment of installation capability and caution during wet towing, with reviews of contingency arrangements, crew instructions and training to support rapid evacuation, escape and rescue following significant flooding.
- 2006Jul
Fire in engine room on stern trawler Ocean Challenge resulting in vessel sinking
A fishing accident flyer describes an engine-room fire on a wooden vessel, thought to involve an electrical fault. Failed emergency shutdown arrangements, evacuation, premature reboarding, renewed fire and subsequent sinking are described. Lessons address electrical checks, shutdown testing, compartment closure and safe re-entry by trained, appropriately equipped firefighters.
- 2006Jul
MAIB Safety Digest 2/2006
This marine accident digest presents cases involving merchant ships, fishing vessels and leisure craft. Lessons examine lookout, passage planning, fatigue, firefighting, lifting injuries, lifeboat failures, flooding and capsize. Case analyses emphasise suitable training, clear briefings, risk assessment and emergency arrangements. Appendices list examinations, investigations and issued reports.
- 20041 May
Serious injury in towing operation
Three tug crew members were seriously injured after entering the aft deck without the captain’s permission to fit a stop wire. During manoeuvring, the tow wire tensioned and jumped a guiding pin. The flash examines procedural breaches, restricted bridge visibility and missing toolbox talks, and identifies risk-assessment, communication and vessel-selection improvements.
- 2004Mar
Flooding and sinking of twin rig trawler Elhanan T
Investigates Elhanan T’s flooding and sinking off Fraserburgh following compression-fitting failure and ineffective valve isolation. Examines bilge pumping, watertight subdivision and maintenance, alongside rescue communications and the transition to salvage. Releasing the nets altered stability, causing capsize; the skipper and helicopter winchman were subsequently recovered without injury.
- 2003Jul
Contact made by ro-ro passenger ferry Pride of Portsmouth with berthed warship HMS St Albans during heavy weather
Investigates Pride of Portsmouth’s collision with HMS St Albans in Portsmouth Harbour during strong winds. Analysis examines bow-thruster loss, tug arrangements, weather information, inappropriate helm commands and bridge-console limitations. Voyage data recorder evidence informs findings on communication and workload; subsequent measures include training, tug requirements and ferry wind limits.
- 2002
MAIB Safety Digest 3/2002
A collection of marine accident lessons covering merchant ships, fishing vessels and leisure craft. Cases examine navigation, collisions and near misses, grounding, galley fires, machinery faults, corrosion, flooding and capsize. Lessons discuss radar use, watchkeeper fatigue, watertight integrity, equipment maintenance, lifejackets and emergency preparedness; findings are expressly tentative.
- 20011 Jan
Sea fastening
During an Atlantic tow, shelving on a barge moved because its supports and fixings were inadequate, presenting potential harm to personnel and equipment. The member reminded vessel personnel to secure materials and equipment during movements and inspect their support and fastening before transit.
- 1998
MAIB Safety Digest 1/1998
This digest examines casualties involving merchant ships, fishing vessels and leisure craft. Case lessons address radar interpretation, passage planning, watchkeeper rest, shipboard fires, safe access, cargo securing, flooding detection and overboard recovery. Appendices list investigations and explain MAIB inquiry arrangements.
- 1996
MAIB Safety Digest 1/1996
A collection of maritime casualty accounts examines towing failures, engine-room fires, fatigue-related groundings, machinery injuries and fatal tank exposure. Cases discuss lifeboat winch clutches, fuel-system fittings, oxygen hoses and fishing-vessel flooding. Commentary addresses operating instructions, atmospheric testing, watchkeeper rest, fire suppression and lifesaving arrangements, retaining uncertainty where causes were not established.
- 1995
MAIB Safety Digest 2/1995
Marine casualty summaries examine grounding, pollution, electrical power loss, towing, corrosion, refrigerant release and fishing-vessel losses. Case commentary addresses bilge pumping, watertight subdivision, alarm checks, watchkeeper rest and liferaft installation. A review of serious flooding investigations covers 1990–1994, distinguishing established findings from uncertain causes.
- 1995
MAIB Safety Digest 3/1995
A marine safety digest examines casualties involving cargo movement, navigation, tank entry, flooding, capsizing and fishing gear injuries. Case commentary discusses gas-monitor interpretation, watertight closures, securing arrangements, bridge monitoring and emergency escape. Fishing cases explore snagged gear, shifting catch and unsafe handling of tensioned bridles.
- 19949 Mar
Safety Alert 162 - Accidents on the OCS Involving Drilling Rigs, Derrick Barges, Pipeline Lay Barges, and Anchor-handling Vessels
The alert describes two jack-up rig moves that damaged pipelines and an earlier fatal anchor-recovery incident. It sets out survey, plat distribution and buoy-marking requirements, recommends adequate tug horsepower rather than premature leg contact to control movement, and emphasises lease operators’ responsibility for providing contractors with necessary hazard information.
- 19949 Mar
Safety Alert 163 - Accidents on the OCS Involving Drilling Rigs, Derrick Barges, Pipeline Lay Barges, and Anchor-handling Vessels
The notice describes pipeline damage during two jack-up rig moves and a fatal anchor-recovery incident. It sets out survey, plat distribution and buoy-marking requirements, recommends adequate tug horsepower rather than premature rig-leg bottom contact, and explains lease operators’ responsibility for supplying contractors with necessary information.
- 1994
MAIB Safety Digest 2/1994
This marine accident digest presents lessons from collisions, groundings, machinery failures, shipboard fires and injuries during fishing and access operations. Case commentaries examine lookout and radar use, tank pressure relief, hatch-cover securing, shaft guarding and first aid. An appendix lists investigations commenced between April and July 1994.
- Undated
Towed Derrick Barge Struck Shut-in Caisson Well
Investigation of a towed derrick barge striking a shut-in caisson well. Probable causes were failure to monitor onboard navigation equipment and misjudgement of clearance due to tow length. Structural damage prompted access restrictions. The report records 1 March 2008, but also notes the operator’s belief that damage occurred between later visits.
- Undated
Jack-Up Rig Collided with Platform During Tug-Assisted Move
Investigation of a collision between the Hercules 203 jack-up rig and Platform C in South Pelto Block 23 during a tug-assisted move. Seabed contact by at least one leg reduced manoeuvrability; the report attributes probable cause to pilot error. Both structures sustained minor damage, and no recurrence recommendations were issued.
- Undated
Towed Tank Barge Strikes Unmanned Production Platform
Investigation of a towed tank barge striking an unmanned production platform in the Gulf of America. Findings identify unauthorised independent navigation, inadequate watch supervision, misunderstood watch-relief instructions and a lost GOB chain restricting manoeuvrability. The allision damaged both assets without reported injuries or pollution; structural assessments preceded restoration of production.
- Undated
Towed Derrick Barge Struck Unmanned Platform
Investigation of a towed derrick barge striking the unmanned GI 48 P platform. The report examines navigational deviation, wind and current, delayed corrective action, phone distraction and crew warnings. Both assets sustained damage; no injuries, pollution or hydrocarbon release occurred. Improvement opportunities concern navigation vigilance and bridge resource management.
- Undated
Derrick Barge Struck Compressor Platform After Anchor Recovery
Investigation of the William Kallop derrick barge striking Chevron’s ST 130D compressor platform after anchor recovery. The report identifies loss of tugboat control, poor communication and strong current as probable causes, describes structural damage, and records failure to follow Arena Offshore’s emergency evacuation plan.
- Undated
Barge Struck Production Platform During Towing and Anchoring
An investigation documents Crossmar 14 striking the Ship Shoal 182 B production platform during towing and anchoring. Tensioned cables at opposite corners caused the barge to pivot, damaging a well conductor and structural support. Findings identify excessive proximity, an absent documented safe work plan and no assigned bow lookout.
- Undated
Capsize of sloop towed by police launch Sea Quest with loss of at least 60 lives
Investigation of a migrant sloop’s capsize while towed by Sea Quest near Providenciales, with 60 bodies recovered. Stability analysis indicated negligible stability with 125 passengers on deck, but the exact trigger remained unknown. Recommendations address safe interception procedures, patrol-launch capability, communications and maritime search-and-rescue coordination.
- Undated
Capsize, drifting and sinking of beam trawler Flamingo with loss of 4 lives
Investigation synopsis of Flamingo’s capsize and sinking east of Harwich, with four crew lost. Rocks and shells caused the portside net to break at a weak link, raising the centre of gravity and reducing stability. It discusses raised derricks, quick-release gear and wearing working-type lifejackets on deck.
- Undated
Collision between chain ferry Bramble Bush Bay and 4 racing yachts resulting in 1 yacht sinking
Investigation synopsis of four racing yachts colliding with a chain ferry at Poole Harbour. Loss of wind and steerage preceded the collisions in a strong ebb tide. One yacht and a crew member were drawn beneath the ferry. Recommendations address racing-event communications and review of rescue-boat effectiveness and towing capability.
- Undated
Collision between harbour tug Thorngarth and its tow chemical/oil carrier Stolt Aspiration
Thorngarth collided with Stolt Aspiration while recovering its bow-tug position near Birkenhead Docks. The tug sustained significant structural damage and its engineer broke an arm. The investigation attributes the accident to insufficient familiarity and manoeuvre training, and recommends discussion of tug allocation and matching crew expertise to tug type and task.
- Undated
Contact made by bulk carrier Xuchanghai with berthed shuttle oil tanker Aberdeen
This investigation synopsis describes Xuchanghai’s collision with the berthed tanker Aberdeen at Immingham Oil Terminal. It identifies insufficient speed for steerage, arrival scheduling and delayed stern-tug assistance as key factors. Recommendations concern port procedures, information provided to pilots and English-language knowledge for safe pilotage.
- Undated
Contacts made by passenger vessel Logos II during berthing and unberthing
Investigation of two contacts involving Logos II at St Helier in June 2007 examines tug positioning during berthing and a parted tow line during departure. It identifies pilot–tug communication problems and shortcomings in port risk assessment, auditing, towage guidance and pilot development. Damage occurred, but nobody was injured.
- Undated
Dragging anchor and grounding by general cargo vessel Baltic Champ
MAIB examines Baltic Champ’s anchor dragging and grounding off Kirkwall in winds gusting between 60 and 70 knots. The synopsis identifies inadequate anchor cable length and position monitoring among contributory causes. It discusses delays in agreeing towage arrangements and recommends reviewing dedicated UK emergency towage cover.
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Engine failure and subsequent grounding of oil tanker Braer
Investigation of BRAER’s engine failure and grounding at Garths Ness, Shetland, on 5 January 1993. It examines seawater contamination of diesel fuel, loose spare pipes, machinery operation, navigation, helicopter evacuation and attempted towage. Recommendations address tank vent protection, emergency anchoring and towing arrangements. Pollution aftermath is excluded.
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Engine failure on container vessel Savannah Express and subsequent contact with linkspan
Investigation synopsis of Savannah Express striking a Southampton linkspan after losing astern propulsion. It examines hydraulic pressure sensor failures, misunderstood engine controls, inadequate tug allocation and communication shortcomings. The findings highlight limitations in engineers’ training for electronically controlled engines and the need for adequate type-specific instruction.
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Fire in engine room of twin rig trawler Elegance followed by second fire resulting in flooding and sinking
Synopsis of two engine-room fires aboard the fishing trawler Elegance in 2004. The first involved failed fuel isolation and an unsuccessful attempt to operate fixed carbon dioxide suppression. Following repairs, a second fire preceded flooding, worsening stability, abandonment and sinking despite towing and salvage pumping.
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Fire in machinery space of chemical tanker Multitank Ascania resulting in abandonment and drifting of the vessel
An investigation examines a machinery-space fire aboard Multitank Ascania near the Pentland Firth. Thermal oil escaped from a pump seal and/or a valve flange; ignition remained unidentified. Firefighting, helicopter evacuation, failed towing and anchoring are described. The tanker was eventually recovered with minor injuries, light damage and no pollution.
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Flooding, engine failure and grounding of refrigerated cargo vessel Green Lily with loss of 1 life during rescue
Investigation synopsis concerning Green Lily’s flooding, engine stoppage and subsequent grounding off Shetland in storm conditions. It describes unsuccessful engine restart and towage attempts, lifeboat and helicopter evacuation, and the loss of a helicopter winchman. Findings identify propulsion loss and contributory failures; recommendations address teamwork and successful emergency towing.
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Girting, capsize and sinking of workboat/tug Trijnie, while assisting petroleum products tanker Tillerman, with loss of 1 life
Investigation synopsis of Trijnie’s capsize and foundering while assisting Tillerman into Milford Docks, with one crewman lost. It describes a stern-tug peel-off manoeuvre, water coming aboard and rescue efforts. Findings identify absent training for this towing mode, no gog rope, a disconnected towing-hook trip wire and differing operational assumptions.
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Grounding of live fish carrier Aqua-Boy
Investigation synopsis of Aqua-boy’s grounding in the Sound of Mull after her fatigued master fell asleep on watch. It identifies insufficient rest, a disabled watch alarm, absence of a lookout and inadequate manning. Unsuccessful towing attempts preceded refloating on the rising tide; owners were recommended to provide formal instruction concerning rest requirements.
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Grounding of oil tanker Sea Empress and the subsequent salvage operation
Investigation of Sea Empress’s grounding and salvage at Milford Haven in February 1996. It examines pilotage, complex tidal streams, tank damage and oil losses, alongside repeated refloating attempts. Salvage measures included towing, pump-room dewatering and ventilation, evacuation, and tank pressurisation before the tanker was brought under control.
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Grounding on uncharted bank of jack-up barge Octopus while being towed by tug Harald
Investigation synopsis describes Octopus grounding on an uncharted bank while under tow by Harald in the Orkney Islands, with barge legs extended to 13 m. Four legs buckled; nobody was injured. Recommendations address hydrographic survey priorities, electronic chart warnings about poor survey quality, and passage planning that considers tides and chart source data.
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Inadvertant release of carbon dioxide in heavy weather and subsequent disabling of ro-ro vehicle carrier Figaro
Investigation of Figaro’s accidental carbon dioxide discharge in rough weather, disabling propulsion and generation. An unsuccessful routine test left the fire-smothering system unstable; ship motion most likely opened a valve. The synopsis examines contradictory maintenance instructions, crew unfamiliarity and towing difficulties before propulsion was restored. Crew escaped without injury.
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Parting of hawser during towing operation on workboat Llanddwyn Island with loss of 1 life
MAIB synopsis of a fatal towing accident aboard Llanddwyn Island while moving a dredger in Roscoff, France. It identifies a failed chain in the hawser, exposure within its snap-back zone, absent written procedures and outdated risk assessments. Recommendations address skipper qualifications, towing training, charter-party information exchange and safe systems of work.