BASÓFIAS Acidente Marítimo Grave
Vessel: BASÓFIAS
GAMA reference: 2014-206
Data da ocorrência acidental: 09-09-2014
Circulated on: 10-02-2015
Published on: 18-03-2015
Casualty Event: Loss of directional control
Summary
At approximately 1630 on 9 September 2014, BASÓFIAS was navigating on the Mondego River reservoir upstream of the Coimbra weir bridge with three crew members and four passengers aboard. Near the left bank, opposite Fórum Coimbra, the vessel suddenly lost directional control. The skipper immediately stopped the engine and deployed the anchor to prevent the vessel from grounding. Inspection established that a semi-submerged tree branch had been drawn into the waterjet propulsion system and had become lodged between the discharge nozzle and a directional rudder, immobilising the steering arrangement. The Coimbra municipal fire service evacuated the passengers and towed BASÓFIAS to its landing stage, where the obstruction could be removed. No injuries, pollution or structural damage were reported.
Safety recommendations
No safety recommendations were issued.
Lessons learned
Operators of shallow-draught waterjet vessels should assess debris conditions before sailing and maintain an increased lookout following heavy rainfall, flooding or wildfires. Areas where floating and semi-submerged material accumulates should be avoided or approached at reduced speed. Emergency anchoring arrangements should remain ready for immediate use following a loss of propulsion or steering. Operating licences, evidence of seaworthiness and safe-manning documentation should remain valid, and all crew members should hold the qualifications required for their assigned duties.