Tragic Tugboat Capsizing Revealed in New Footage
Unreleased footage of the tugboat Biter’s tragic capsizing off Greenock has surfaced, shedding light on the incident that claimed the lives of two crew members. The tugboat sank on February 24, 2023, while assisting the Hebridean Princess as it approached James Watt Dock. An investigation by the Marine Accidents Investigation Branch (MAIB) has since identified multiple safety failures that contributed to the disaster.
Investigation Uncovers Critical Safety Failures
The MAIB’s investigation revealed that the Biter capsized within ten seconds due to a series of systemic failures. The two crew members, George Taft, 65, and Ian Catterson, 73, were found deceased nearly 24 hours after the incident in the Firth of Clyde. The investigation highlighted fourteen contributing factors, including the speed of the Hebridean Princess, which placed excessive strain on the tugboat’s safety equipment, leading to a critical rope failure.
One significant finding was that an open hatch on the Biter compromised its watertight integrity, severely limiting the crew’s chances of survival. The MAIB emphasized that the marine pilot’s training did not adequately prepare them for operations involving conventional tugs like the Biter. Furthermore, a lack of communication between the cruise ship’s master and the tug masters resulted in a failure to understand the risks associated with the maneuvering of the tug behind the cruise ship.
In response to the findings, the MAIB has released a safety video aimed at promoting awareness of the identified safety issues among those involved in ship assist towage operations. Recommendations have been made for improved training and communication protocols among tug crews, marine pilots, and vessel masters. Key advice includes maintaining closed hatches during towing operations and ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the towage plan to mitigate risks effectively.
Call for Enhanced Safety Measures in Maritime Operations
Andrew Moll OBE, chief inspector of marine accidents, described the incident as a “cruel lesson” in the rapidity with which maritime disasters can occur. He stressed the importance of understanding the vulnerabilities of small tugboats, which play a crucial role in UK port operations. Moll urged all parties involved—harbour authorities, ship and tug masters, and pilots—to collectively assume responsibility for safety risks.
He pointed out that even minor increases in speed can significantly escalate the forces acting on towlines, heightening the risk of accidents. The MAIB’s recommendations also include ensuring that tug crews are well-trained and experienced, and that they share a detailed understanding of the towage plan before commencing operations. The report serves as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance and adherence to safety protocols in maritime operations to prevent future tragedies.
