ANTERO DE QUENTAL - Serious Maritime ca
Vessel: ANTERO DE QUENTAL
GAMA reference: 2017-026
Data da ocorrência acidental: 25-01-2017
Circulated on: 26-06-2017
Published on: 31-07-2017
Summary
On 25 January 2017, ANTERO DE QUENTAL departed Barreiro passenger terminal with four crew members and 561 passengers for Terreiro do Paço. The crossing was made in dense fog, with visibility of approximately 100 metres. During the approach, the vessel proceeded towards what was believed to be the passenger terminal but was Doca da Marinha pontoon. The vessel was making 13.2 knots at a distance of approximately 72 metres from the pontoon. Astern propulsion was applied after the engineer warned that the pontoon was approximately 10 metres ahead, but the action was too late to prevent contact. Thirty-seven passengers were injured, and the vessel and pontoon sustained damage. No pollution was reported and the vessel remained navigable.
Safety recommendations
SR 2017-026 A: Assess restricting bar service aboard vessels during adverse weather or restricted visibility, or whenever considered necessary by the Master, particularly during the approach to a berth. No response status is recorded in the report. SR 2017-026 B: Assess strengthening signage and passenger announcements requiring passengers to remain seated until the relevant announcement has ended. No response status is recorded in the report. SR 2017-026 C: Assess strengthening the implementation and use of general alarms. No response status is recorded in the report. SR 2017-026 D: Assess strengthening Master training for navigation in restricted visibility. No response status is recorded in the report. SR 2017-026 E: Assess implementing closest point of approach alarms on navigational equipment. No response status is recorded in the report
Lessons learned
High-speed passenger vessels should approach terminals in restricted visibility at a speed that allows the vessel to stop within the visible and radar-assessed distance. Bridge lookouts should remain in position until the berth and surrounding structures have been positively identified. Passengers should remain seated during the final approach, bar service should be restricted when conditions require it, and the general alarm should be immediately accessible and activated when an impact is imminent.