Urgent Call for Navigation Training After Tanker Collision
A serious collision between a crude oil tanker and a fishing trawler in Scotland’s Firth of Clyde has sparked urgent calls for mandatory navigation training for small fishing vessel crews. The incident, which occurred on April 25, 2024, nearly resulted in tragedy, highlighting significant safety deficiencies within the maritime industry. Investigators are now emphasizing the need for improved training to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
Details of the Incident
The tanker Apache collided with the fishing trawler Serinah, causing the latter 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. The incident raised serious concerns about the navigational practices of both vessels involved.
A report released by 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). The investigation uncovered that the crew of Serinah had not received any formal navigation training, leaving them ill-equipped to recognize the developing risk. Chief Inspector of Marine Accidents Andrew Moll OBE stated, “This accident could have had a far worse outcome,” emphasizing the critical need for improved navigational practices.
The collision occurred shortly after 3:00 p.m. while Serinah was engaged in circular fishing tows. The tanker Apache, which was the give-way vessel, failed to take effective avoiding action, assuming that the trawler would maneuver clear based on past experiences. The situation escalated when Apache‘s bow ran over Serinah‘s towing wires, leading to severe damage and the rapid sinking of the fishing vessel. Initially, Apache continued toward its pilot boarding station at Finnart Oil Terminal, only turning back after being reminded by Belfast Coastguard of its obligation to assist.
Actionable data is key to reducing shipping’s carbon footprint
Recommendations and Future Actions
In light of the findings, the MAIB has issued three formal safety recommendations. The Maritime and Coastguard Agency is urged to mandate approved navigation training for skippers and watchkeepers on UK fishing vessels measuring between 7 and 16.5 meters. Additionally, the manager of Apache, 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, is 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 meet vessel traffic service standards. This incident underscores a persistent weakness in the UK’s maritime safety framework, where mandatory training does not guarantee that those on navigational watch are sufficiently qualified. As commercial and fishing vessels increasingly share congested waters, the MAIB stresses that formal training and strict adherence to collision-avoidance rules are essential to preventing future accidents at sea.
