200922 Collision in Dover Straits

Collision in Dover Straits
MARS Report 200922

Official report: adapted from IMO Flag State Implementation Sub-committee (FSI) report, 11th session

A passenger cruise ship collided with a container ship in a crossing situation in the Dover Straits. Both ships sustained serious damage including a very serious fire on the container ship.

Root cause/contributory factors
The attention of the passenger ship's OOW was diverted by other tasks in heavy traffic;
The container ship reduced its available options for avoiding action by overtaking another vessel from the port side just when a close-quarters situation was developing with the passenger ship.
Lessons learned

The collision could have been averted if one or both vessels had reduced speed in good time.
In heavy traffic situations, doubling of the watch should be considered if there is a possibility of the OOW being distracted by other tasks, such as the need for radio communication for reporting ship's position.
Vessels shall follow Rule 13 of the Colregs when overtaking any other vessel. In addition, when overtaking another vessel, careful consideration should be given to the side on which to overtake. Factors to be taken into account should include available sea room and the possible need to take avoiding action in respect of other vessels in the vicinity.
The OOW should not hesitate in reducing speed to avert collision if circumstances so require and should also be guided by Rule 8 (e) of the Colregs.