Fishing Vessel Capsizing Incident

Operational Briefing: Investigation of the capsizing and sinking of fishing vessel north of Flakstadøya in Lofoten

What Happened:

The fishing vessel “Nordland” capsized and subsequently sank north of Flakstadøya in Lofoten during longline hauling operations. The incident occurred in challenging weather conditions, including freezing spray, which led to significant ice accumulation on the vessel’s deck and superstructure. This, combined with the weight of the catch and the fishing gear being hauled, severely compromised the vessel’s stability. Furthermore, the investigation revealed water ingress into the fish hold, exacerbating the stability issues. The dynamic nature of the hauling operation, shifting the vessel’s center of gravity and reducing freeboard, ultimately led to the rapid loss of stability and the vessel’s capsizing. One person tragically lost their life in this incident.

Immediate Operational Checks:

Fellow officers and independent mariners must immediately review and reinforce their vessel’s stability management protocols, especially when operating in cold climates or engaging in operations that involve significant deck loads. Prioritize thorough stability calculations and checks before and during operations, particularly in conditions conducive to ice accretion. Ensure all crew members are acutely aware of the combined effects of ice, catch, and fishing gear on stability. Regularly monitor for and promptly address any water ingress into holds or compartments. Re-evaluate operational limits and procedures for fishing gear handling, ensuring they account for dynamic stability changes and potential adverse weather conditions.

Lessons Learned:

• Inadequate assessment and management of vessel stability, particularly concerning the cumulative effects of ice accretion, catch, and dynamic loads from fishing gear.
• Insufficient awareness of the rapid and severe impact of multiple stability-reducing factors acting concurrently.
• The critical importance of maintaining watertight integrity and effective bilge pumping systems to manage water ingress.
• The necessity for robust risk assessments that specifically address operations in challenging environmental conditions, including freezing spray.
• The need for clear operational procedures that account for stability limitations during all phases of fishing activities.

Tags:

Capsizing, Sinking, Fishing Vessel, Stability, Ice Accretion, Operational Safety

Official Report

Read the full safety report here: Investigation of the capsizing and sinking of fishing vessel north of Flakstadøya in Lofoten