The Sara-Star: Crew Feedback and Vessel Data

The Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) has published an extensive report detailing the grounding of the cargo vessel "Clonlee" on the River Tyne, which occurred on March 16, 2011. This incident was triggered by an electrical malfunction that resulted in a total power failure, causing the vessel to run aground. Fortunately, "Clonlee" managed to recover and proceeded into the Port of Tyne after the mishap. The 68-page report identified that the electrical power failure was the primary cause of the incident, exacerbated by a combination of human and machinery errors. The investigation revealed that the bridge team, consisting of two members, was inadequately staffed, and the ship’s master was overwhelmed, leading to a loss of situational awareness. A significant finding highlighted that essential systems aboard "Clonlee" had not been operated, tested, or maintained in accordance with the manufacturer's guidelines. Despite the experience and certifications of the ship’s engineers, they exhibited limited understanding of the electrical power supply, distribution, and control systems, ultimately failing to restore power in a timely and controlled manner. Additionally, there were no preparations made for the ship’s maneuvering, and the deck crew were not on standby prior to entering the harbor. In response to these findings, the report has made specific recommendations to North Atlantic Shipping Limited, the owners of "Clonlee." The recommendations aim to address a pervasive culture of complacency aboard their vessels. The company has been urged to conduct a thorough review of onboard training protocols, enhance emergency response procedures, and ensure that all ships are equipped with the manufacturer's operation manuals for critical systems and equipment. In light of the report, the Port of Tyne has undertaken revisions to its passage plan for vessels entering the harbor and has distributed a marine memo to clarify safety protocols. The Port has committed to amending its port passage plan to encompass its seaward approaches, ensuring that its Vessel Traffic Services operators closely monitor and, when necessary, question vessel intentions as they approach the port, enhancing overall safety measures. The Port of Tyne has reflected on the observations made in the MAIB report and has updated its Safety Management System accordingly, demonstrating a commitment to improved maritime safety and operational protocols.

On March 16, 2011, the vessel 'Clonlee' encountered a significant incident as it ran aground near a South Shields beach while navigating down the River Tyne. The grounding was triggered by an electrical fault that led to a power failure around 1:15 a.m. With 12 crew members on board, the ship began to drift before ultimately grounding itself on sand close to Littlehaven beach. In response to the emergency, tugs were deployed to the scene as efforts commenced to lighten the vessel’s load in anticipation of the incoming tide, expected at 10 a.m. Fortunately, the 'Clonlee' successfully freed itself from the sand and resumed its journey to the Port of Tyne. For more details, including a video report of the incident, visit: http://www.shieldsgazette.com/news/drama_as_ship_runs_aground_in_fog_1_3186086.