Investigation Calls for Mandatory Navigation Training Following Firth of Clyde Collision
A serious collision between the crude oil tanker *Apache* and the fishing trawler *Serinah* in Scotland’s Firth of Clyde has raised alarms about maritime safety and the need for improved training for small fishing vessel crews. The incident, which occurred on April 25, 2024, nearly resulted in tragedy, exposing significant gaps in safety protocols and navigational practices.
Details of the Incident
The collision took place shortly after 3:00 p.m. while *Serinah* was engaged in circular fishing tows in a seabed depression. The *Apache* struck the stern of the *Serinah*, causing the fishing vessel to sink rapidly. Fortunately, all three crew members aboard *Serinah* survived, although the skipper spent approximately 15 minutes in the water before being rescued by his crewmates, who managed to deploy an inflatable liferaft.
A report from the UK’s Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) revealed that neither vessel took adequate measures to avoid the collision, despite clear obligations under the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (IRPCS). Investigators found that the crew of *Serinah* had not received any formal navigation training, leaving them ill-equipped to recognize the risks and fulfill their responsibilities.
Chief Inspector of Marine Accidents Andrew Moll OBE stated, “This accident could have had a far worse outcome,” emphasizing the shortcomings in navigational practices on both vessels involved. The *Apache*, identified as the give-way vessel, failed to take effective avoiding action, assuming that *Serinah* would maneuver clear based on past experiences.
Recommendations and Safety Measures
In light of the findings, the MAIB has issued three formal safety recommendations. The Maritime and Coastguard Agency has been urged to mandate approved navigation training for skippers and watchkeepers on UK fishing vessels measuring between 7 and 16.5 meters. Additionally, *Apache*’s management, Nereus Shipping S.A., has been advised to enhance fleet-wide understanding of fishing vessel behavior. Meanwhile, *Serinah*’s operator, S & B Fish (Agency) Limited, has been instructed to ensure that all watchkeepers are adequately trained and familiar with the IRPCS.
Since the incident, Nereus Shipping has conducted audits of navigational practices across its fleet and implemented revised procedures along with in-house training. Furthermore, Peel Ports Group has announced plans to upgrade monitoring capabilities at Clyde Port to align with vessel traffic service standards.
This collision underscores a persistent weakness in the UK’s maritime safety framework, where mandatory training requirements for fishermen do not guarantee that those on navigational watches are sufficiently qualified. As commercial and fishing vessels increasingly share congested waters, the MAIB emphasizes the critical need for formal training and strict adherence to collision-avoidance rules to prevent future accidents at sea.
For further details, the full report is available on the UK MAIB website.
