COCHICHO - Very serious Maritime Casualty
Vessel: COCHICHO
GAMA reference: 2013-219
Data da ocorrência acidental: 21-12-2013
Circulated on: 11-12-2013
Published on: 21-01-2014
Casualty Event: Foundering
Summary
On 21 December 2013, COCHICHO departed Santo Amaro Dock, Lisbon, with seven persons aboard for recreational fishing near Cape Espichel. During the return voyage, the craft crossed the shallower waters of the South Cachopo area at an estimated speed of 15 to 20 knots. A large wave approached from the port bow, lifted the craft, caused a heavy heel to starboard and broke over it, resulting in capsizing. Four persons initially remained with the craft, and one subsequently swam ashore and raised the alert. The other six persons were recovered deceased. None of the persons aboard had been wearing a lifejacket
Safety recommendations
SR 219-2013.1: Assess ensuring that persons operating powered recreational craft continuously adapt speed to the prevailing weather, sea and navigational conditions, reassessing those conditions throughout the voyage and reducing speed whenever circumstances change. No response status is recorded in the report
Lessons learned
Speed should be continuously adjusted to the prevailing sea conditions, water depth, wave direction and the handling characteristics of the craft. Approaching shallow banks in increasing head or bow seas requires an early and substantial reduction in speed. Lifejackets should be worn throughout the voyage, and liferafts, lifebuoys and other lifesaving appliances should be positioned for immediate use or automatic release following capsizing.