This incident, reported by The Nautical Institute, involved a cargo vessel making a berthing approach in a challenging location. The event highlights the operational risks associated with restricted tug operations and limited manoeuvring space in confined waterways.
What Happened
A cargo vessel was approaching a berth under pilotage with tug assistance. The berth was located in a narrow waterway characterized by strong currents and shallow depths. Local regulations prevented tugs from securing lines to the vessel, allowing only push-assist operations. During the final approach, the vessel was moving at 4.8 knots before corrective actions were initiated. Despite multiple engine manoeuvres and the eventual use of the port anchor, the vessel made contact with the pier at approximately 0.9 knots. Damage was sustained on the starboard bow and aft starboard quarter.
Why It Happened
The incident occurred due to a combination of environmental, operational, and procedural shortcomings. The vessel’s ability to manoeuvre was significantly restricted by strong currents and shallow water in the approach channel. These natural conditions were further complicated by the angular layout of the pier, which made alignment and docking more difficult.
Local regulations prohibited tugs from securing lines to the vessel, limiting them to push-assist manoeuvres and removing the option for pull support during critical moments. Communication gaps between the bridge team, the pilot, and the tug operators also affected coordinated decision-making and response. Finally, the delayed deployment of the port anchor reduced its effectiveness in countering the vessel’s swing to starboard, contributing directly to the contact with the pier.
Lessons Learned
- Thorough preberthing planning is essential in locations with known environmental and regulatory constraints.
- Continuous and clear communication between the bridge team, pilot, and tug operators is critical throughout the berthing process.
- Regular drills should reinforce emergency manoeuvres, including timely anchor deployment and dynamic response to environmental conditions.
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Source: The Nautical Institute
