ESTRELA DO OCEANO E JADE V - Serious Maritime Casualty
Vessel: ESTRELA DO OCEANO JADE V
GAMA reference: 2013-202
Data da ocorrência acidental: 27-11-2013
Circulated on: 28-04-2014
Published on: 29-05-2014
Casualty Event: Collision - With other ship
Summary
On 27 November 2013, the French sailing catamaran JADE V was sailing south from La Rochelle towards Cascais, while the Portuguese fishing vessel ESTRELA DO OCEANO was returning to Leixões after fishing. The vessels were in sight of one another in good visibility approximately 25 nautical miles off Espinho. JADE V was under sail on a heading of approximately 170 degrees at 6 to 8 knots, and ESTRELA DO OCEANO was proceeding under power on approximately 060 degrees at 7 to 8 knots. Both watchkeepers initially expected the other vessel to pass astern. When the vessels were less than one nautical mile apart, ESTRELA DO OCEANO altered course to starboard towards approximately 090 degrees. JADE V then altered course to port in an attempt to reduce the angle of impact. The vessels collided at approximately 1430. No fatalities or serious injuries were reported. JADE V was initially towed by ESTRELA DO OCEANO, after which the lifeboat DUQUE DA RIBEIRA took over the tow to Leixões.
Safety recommendations
SR 202-2013.1: Assess strengthening training for deck-officer and fishing-vessel command qualifications in the interpretation and practical application of the COLREG manoeuvring rules. No response status is recorded in the report. SR 202-2013.2: Assess strengthening training in radar operation, use and interpretation, with increased simulated practice focused on collision avoidance and relevant international training guidance. No response status is recorded in the report. SR 202-2013.3: Assess the feasibility of requiring all deck personnel in command of coastal vessels to hold a Radar Operator Certificate. No response status is recorded in the report. SR 202-2013.4: Assess establishing a maximum validity period of five years for Radar Operator Certificates, with mandatory refresher training for revalidation. No response status is recorded in the report.
Lessons learned
Collision risk should be assessed continuously using visual bearings and all available navigational equipment. A slowly changing bearing may still indicate an unsafe closest point of approach. The give-way vessel should take early, substantial and readily apparent action, normally avoiding an alteration across the other vessel’s bow. The stand-on vessel should act in sufficient time when it becomes apparent that the give-way vessel is not manoeuvring appropriately. Reducing speed is an effective means of gaining time, assessing the situation and increasing separation.