A tanker in ballast was at anchor in a congested anchorage with a depth of around 90–100 metres. The OOW noticed a vessel underway approaching ahead at about 3 knots and on what appeared to be a collision course. The Master came to the bridge and together with the OOW they attempted to communicate with the approaching vessel. The engines were ordered, and the ship’s horn was used to attract attention, but to no avail. The approaching vessel did not respond and continued its manoeuvre, coming ever closer. Image for representation purpose only The vessel had 10 shackles on deck, but options were limited. Paying out more anchor cable would have caused the vessel to move aft, thereby closing with another vessel at anchor. Port traffic control also tried to contact the moving vessel, but to no avail. Some 18 minutes after being identified as on a collision course, the moving vessel struck the anchored vessel on its port bow. Minor damage was sustained at the port forward bulwarks and associated brackets connected to the forecastle deck. Lessons learned An attentive anchor watch is just as important as a watch underway. In this case, however, it still could not prevent the turn of events that was beyond the control of the anchored vessel. Information from the moving vessel was unavailable to the contributor – it is assumed the team on the bridge wished to anchor to port and behind the already anchored vessel. When in a crowded anchorage or other situations that require delicate manoeuvring, call tugs to assist. Disclaimer : The information on this website is for general purposes only. While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, we make no warranties of any kind regarding completeness, reliability, or suitability. Any reliance you place on such information is at your own risk. We are not liable for any loss or damage arising from the use of this website. Related Posts Real Life Incident: Collision Of Container Ship and General Cargo Ship Leads To Sinking And Fatalities Real Life Incident: Collision and Sinking of Small Craft in Shipping Lane Real Life Incident: Crew Saved but Ship Lost Real Life Incident: Pin Holes Create Pathway To Fatal Reckoning Related Posts Real Life Incident: Collision Of Container Ship and General Cargo Ship Leads To Sinking And Fatalities Real Life Incident: Collision and Sinking of Small Craft in Shipping Lane Real Life Incident: Crew Saved but Ship Lost Disclaimer : The information on this website is for general purposes only. While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, we make no warranties of any kind regarding completeness, reliability, or suitability. Any reliance you place on such information is at your own risk. We are not liable for any loss or damage arising from the use of this website. Related Articles Real Life Incident: Collision Of Container Ship and General Cargo Ship Leads To Sinking And Fatalities Real Life Incident: Collision and Sinking of Small Craft in Shipping Lane Real Life Incident: Crew Saved but Ship Lost Latest News Real Life Incident: Pin Holes Create Pathway To Fatal Reckoning Real Life Incident: Engine Cadet Loses Life Due To Fumigation Real Life Incident: Poisoning From Fumigant Takes Lives Of Chief And Third Officers Real Life Incident: Engine Room Crew Member Dies Because Of Watertight Door Real Life Incident: Engine Crew Member’s Finger Crushed Real Life Incident: Major Injury To Ship Electrician From Grinder