- Increased incidents of damage to underwater pipelines and cables reported in Turkish waters.
- Even suspected damage can trigger costly inspections, fines, and vessel delays.
- Shipowners advised to use updated charts and carefully plan anchoring operations.
- Maintaining anchor watch and detailed records can help avoid or defend against claims.
Ship operators have been advised to exercise increased caution when anchoring in Turkish waters following a rise in incidents involving damage to underwater pipelines, cables, and related protective structures. These occurrences have led to costly investigations, fines, and operational delays. The advisory was issued by the American Club.
The American Club has highlighted that anchors and chains can cause severe damage to underwater pipelines and fiber optic cables, leading to substantial repair and recovery costs. Even when no actual damage is found, suspected cases often result in administrative investigations requiring underwater inspections, tugboat standby arrangements, and potential vessel detentions. To mitigate such risks, shipowners are urged to use updated navigational charts, plan anchoring operations carefully, and maintain thorough records of communications with VTS and port control. Maintaining an anchor watch and proper documentation can prove essential if claims arise. The advisory further emphasizes that any diver operations for anchor recovery must be approved by the owners of the affected underwater structures.
Recommendations
Members are reminded to keep charts of anchorage areas fully up to date. Masters should plan anchoring operations with due consideration for swinging circles, nearby vessels, water depth, and the presence of any cables or pipelines, in line with their company’s anchoring checklists and procedures.
Once anchored, an effective anchor watch should be maintained, and detailed logbook entries recorded. All instructions and warnings from VTS and port authorities should also be documented, as these records may be reviewed in the event of a claim.
Members are encouraged to take note of this guidance and act accordingly. The Managers extend their thanks to our correspondent, Metropole Maritime & Trading Co., Ltd., Istanbul, for their assistance in compiling the information on which this Alert is based.
Did you subscribe to our Daily newsletter?
It’s Free! Click here to Subscribe!
Source: American Club
