ZORRO / ANDRÉ E LARA - Very Serious Maritime Casualty
Vessel: ZORRO ANDRÉ E LARA
GAMA reference: 2022-325
Data da ocorrência acidental: 18-08-2022
Circulated on: 21-11-2022
Published on: 26-12-2022
Casualty Event: Collision - With other ship
Summary
On 18 August 2022, ZORRO and ANDRÉ E LARA collided while under way on crossing courses in the Olhão Channel. ZORRO was making approximately 20 knots and ANDRÉ E LARA approximately 12 knots. Neither crew identified the developing close-quarters situation in time to take effective avoiding action. All three persons aboard ANDRÉ E LARA fell into the water. Two were injured and the vessel was a constructive total loss.
Safety recommendations
SR01-2022/325, to the Institute for Nature Conservation and Forests: Assess aligning the maximum speed in the main channels of the Ria Formosa Natural Park with the maximum speed applicable in its secondary channels. GAMA did not receive a response.
SR02-2022/325, to the National Maritime Authority: Assess conducting awareness-raising activities addressing the risks associated with navigation in the main and secondary channels of the Ria Formosa Natural Park. GAMA did not receive a response
Lessons learned
Safe navigation in busy inland channels requires continuous monitoring, early recognition of collision risk and timely avoiding action. The permitted speed may not be safe in all conditions. At night, speed should allow sufficient time to distinguish navigation lights from shore lighting, assess vessel movement and manoeuvre effectively.