No injuries and no pollution reported
UK MAIB issued a report on the grounding of the general cargo ship Vectis Eagle Gijon, Spain on 30 November 2014.
On 30 November 2014, the UK registered general cargo vessel Vectis Eagle grounded while entering Gijon, Spain. The vessel refloated under its own power 2 minutes later. There were no injuries and there was no pollution. The forward section of the vessels hull was damaged below the waterline.
The grounding occurred shortly after Vectis Eagle had started a broad turn to starboard in order to round the end of an inner breakwater. The vessel was close to the breakwater and the turn was started too early. The pilot was trying to check the vessels swing with port helm when directional control was lost. The loss of directional control was reportedly due to a steering system failure but this cannot be verified.
As Vectis Eagle approached the breakwater, the engine was put to full astern, the port anchor was let go and the bow thrust was set to maximum thrust. These actions did not prevent the vessel from grounding very close to the breakwater but they undoubtedly prevented more significant damage.
It is of concern that Vectis Eagles master did not immediately report the grounding. Instead he attempted to conceal its occurrence. In addition, the master did not save the information recorded on the voyage data recorder. Six days earlier, Vectis Eagle had struck and caused significant damage to a lock gate in the Kiel Canal. This accident influenced the masters decision-making and actions in Gijon.
A recommendation has been made to Carisbrooke Shipping Limited designed to ensure that the lessons learned from the investigation of the causes and circumstances of this accident are promulgated to its crews.
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You may view the report by clicking below:
Source and Image Credit: UK MAIB
