M. GUERREIRO - Very Serious Maritime Casualty
Vessel: M. GUERREIRO
GAMA reference: 2014-059
Data da ocorrência acidental: 23-02-2014
Circulated on: 10-12-2014
Published on: 27-01-2015
Casualty Event: Foundering
Summary
On 23 February 2014, M. GUERREIRO departed Tavira with two persons aboard for recreational fishing. Both wore lifejackets on departure. When the wind and sea conditions increased, the persons aboard decided to return through Tavira bar. Before entering the bar, both removed their lifejackets. While running before the sea between the breakwaters, the person operating the craft reduced speed. A following wave overtook the craft, came over the stern, flooded it and caused it to capsize. One person entered the water before the capsize, while the other was thrown into the water and remained close to the craft as it was carried towards the eastern breakwater. Both were recovered by a lifeboat. One person survived, while the other was declared dead after being taken to hospital.
Safety recommendations
Lessons learned
Lifejackets should remain correctly worn throughout navigation in or near a bar, particularly when sea conditions are deteriorating. Entry with a following sea requires careful assessment of wave groups, local bathymetry, craft speed and heading. If conditions exceed the safe capability of the craft or persons aboard, entry should be delayed or an alternative safe option should be used.