ZODIAC 04 - WORLD EXPLORER - Very Serious Maritime Casualty
Vessel: ZODIAC 04 WORLD EXPLORER
GAMA reference: 2022-492
Data da ocorrência acidental: 15-11-2022
Circulated on: 26-04-2023
Published on: 02-05-2023
Casualty Event: Capsizing
Summary
On 15 November 2022, during an excursion from the passenger ship WORLD EXPLORER, ZODIAC 04 was operating near Elephant Island, Antarctica, with six passengers and two expedition team members on board. A wave of approximately two metres struck the port bow and capsized the craft. All eight persons entered the water and were recovered and assisted ashore. Two passengers died by drowning. Experience, teamwork and the availability of other boats contributed to the rescue.
Safety recommendations
SR01-2022/492, to the ISM Company of WORLD EXPLORER: Assess the advantages of prioritizing the operational safety of Zodiacs carrying guests by assigning two crew members with specific functions, one skipper and one lookout.
Lessons learned
Passenger excursion vessels should have separate responsibilities for steering and lookout duties. Operating, or remaining nearly adrift, with the sea on the stern or beam increases the risk of capsizing. Emergency VHF communications should clearly identify the vessel, its position, the number of persons on board, and the nature of the emergency. Response resources and medical equipment should be readily available for immediate use. Training, experience and effective teamwork help mitigate the consequences of unexpected situations.