Ship collision in Kaohsiung Port sinks work boat, investigation finds pilot error

A collision in Kaohsiung Port last year resulted in a work boat capsizing and sinking after a Hong Kong-registered bulk carrier, the Pacific Century, struck a pier. The incident, which occurred on June 9, caused damage to the carrier's rudder and the pier itself. Fortunately, no injuries or environmental pollution were reported.

The investigation by the Taiwan Transportation Safety Council (TTC) revealed that the Pacific Century failed to establish adequate lateral distance while maneuvering away from the pier. This lack of space limited the vessel's ability to correct its course. As the ship reversed, its stern began to drift towards the pier due to the propeller's thrust and tugboat assistance. The pilot noticed the deviation and attempted an emergency correction when the stern was about one nautical mile from the pier's corner and the vessel was moving at about 2.5 knots. However, the distance and speed made effective correction difficult.

The TTC also found that crucial details regarding lateral separation and the timing of reversing maneuvers were not adequately discussed and agreed upon between the pilot and the captain during the initial departure phase. The bridge team primarily focused on speed reports and did not integrate essential information like course over ground, reverse track, and relative position to the pier. This prevented the pilot and captain from realizing the ship's heading and track were deviating, increasing operational risks.

While the ship's equipment, the pilot's license, and the crew's certifications were all in order, and weather conditions were favorable, the investigation highlighted deficiencies in communication and situational awareness. The TTC recommended that the Maritime and Port Bureau review its pilotage mechanisms, enhance pilots' judgment and risk identification skills, and improve related assessment, training, and supervision to ensure safer navigation.

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The ship did not establish sufficient lateral distance and the pilot's awareness and correction timing were limited by the vessel's speed and proximity.