The Bahamas Maritime Authority issued a Safety Alert to highlight the need for effective watchkeeping and the application of good seamanship while drifting. The warning comes in light of an ongoing investigation into a cruise ship collision with another sailing vessel while adrift.
The incident
A Bahamas registered cruise ship was drifting in deep water, 12 miles from land, awaiting permission to enter port.
After several days of drifting and re-positioning, the vessel collided with a sailing vessel.
There were neither injuries nor pollution.
Initial findings
While investigation is ongoing, BMA is drawing attention to the following:
- There is the need of a passage plan from berth to berth. Among others, this plan should establish geographical limits (a box), when a vessel is forced to drift.
- Crews must maintain minimum bridge manning.
- All parties should clearly communicate and assess readiness of engines.
Furthermore, drifting vessels must comply with the provisions of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, including (but not limited to):
- maintaining a proper look-out;
- assessing the risk of collision;
- taking action to avoid collision;
- having due regard to the observance of good seamanship.
