OLÍVIA RIBAU - Very Serious Maritime Casualty
Vessel: OLÍVIA RIBAU
GAMA reference: 2015-190
Data da ocorrência acidental: 06-10-2015
Circulated on: 21-09-2016
Published on: 21-10-2016
Casualty Event: Foundering
Summary
On 6 October 2015, OLÍVIA RIBAU was returning from fishing and approaching the entrance to Figueira da Foz harbour in very rough seas when a large following wave struck the stern, shipped a substantial quantity of water and caused the vessel to heel heavily to port. Water spread rapidly through open doors into the fishing deck, engine room, fish hold, accommodation, galley and wheelhouse. Two further waves struck the vessel, which capsized and sank approximately 0.3 nautical miles from the outer north breakwater. Two of the seven crew members survived, five died and the vessel was a total loss. No pollution or environmental damage was reported.
Safety recommendations
No safety recommendations are stated in the provisional report.
Lessons learned
Before entering a harbour in heavy following seas, the Master should reassess the approach, wave behaviour, manoeuvring margins and the possibility of delaying entry. All watertight and weathertight openings should be secured before the approach, and crew members should wear lifejackets when operating in very rough seas or approaching a restricted harbour entrance.