Catastrophic Collision in the German Bight: Polesie vs Verity – 5 Fatalities
Briefing on the Red ensign group MAIB Report on the collision between the bulk carrier Polesie and the general cargo ship Verity. A collision resulting in the sinking of Verity with five fatalities. This took place in the German Bight traffic separation scheme (TSS) in 2023.
Catastrophic Collision in the German Bight: A Wake-Up Call for Navigational Vigilance
What Happened:
On October 24, 2023, the general cargo ship Verity and the bulk carrier Polesie collided in the German Bight Traffic Separation Scheme (TSS). As the ships approached each other, both watchkeepers accepted an unsafely close passing distance.
Verity, the give-way vessel, failed to take early and obvious action to stay clear, instead making small course changes on autopilot. Polesie, the stand-on vessel, made a late turn to port, which made the danger worse.
Vessel Traffic Services (VTS) intervened too late, and their use of a split radio channel prevented the ships from speaking directly to each other. Polesie struck Verity at 12 knots. Verity suffered massive structural damage and sank in just five minutes. Tragically, the crew had no time to put on lifejackets or survival suits, leading to five fatalities.
Immediate Operational Checks:
Officers taking the watch today must immediately check the following:
- CPA/TCPA Alarms: Ensure radars and ECDIS are set to safe Closest Point of Approach (CPA) limits for your current traffic density. Be alert, and alter early!
- Steering Readiness: Verify the process for switching from autopilot to hand steering. You must be prepared to take manual control instantly to avoid close-quarters traffic.
- Radio Monitoring: Confirm the bridge team is actively listening to the correct VHF channels, but remember that radio chatter never replaces the rules of the road.
Avoid making agreements on VHF. Follow the rules, and pass well clear. Adjust safe speeds. Always utilise the Trial Manoeuvre Function on your ARPA / RADAR. AIS is only for information.
Reminder:
MSN 1781 IRPCS / COLREGS Merchant Shipping Notice by the UK’s MCA PDF Download. Extracts quoted below:
Rule 16 – Action by give-way vessel
Every vessel which is directed to keep out of the way of another vessel shall, so far as possible, take early and substantial action to keep well clear.
Rule 8 – Action to avoid collision
(a) Any action taken to avoid collision shall be taken in accordance with the Rules of this Part and shall, if the circumstances of the case admit, be positive, made in ample time and with due regard to the observance of good seamanship.
(b) Any alteration of course and/or speed to avoid collision shall, if the circumstances of the case admit, be large enough to be readily apparent to another vessel observing visually or by radar; a succession of small alterations of course and/or speed should be avoided.
(c) If there is sufficient sea-room, alteration of course alone may be the most effective action to avoid a close-quarters situation provided that it is made in good time, is substantial and does not result in another close-quarters situation.
(d) Action taken to avoid collision with another vessel shall be such as to result in passing at a safe distance. The effectiveness of the action shall be carefully checked until the other vessel is finally past and clear.
That is, action taken to avoid collision should involve a Bold and Early Alteration of Course.
Lessons Learned:
- Follow COLREGs Strictly: Give-way ships must make early, large course changes that are obvious to other vessels. Avoid small autopilot tweaks that confuse other ships.
- Act Defensively: Stand-on ships must watch the give-way ship closely. If the give-way ship does not act, take action to avoid collision—but do not turn toward the danger!
- Keep Safe Distances: Never accept a dangerously close passing distance when there is plenty of open water around you.
- Communicate Clearly: Do not wait for VTS to fix a dangerous situation. Use your radio early to clarify plans if needed, but always prioritize physical manoeuvring over talking on VHF.
Tags: Collision Avoidance, COLREGs, Watchkeeping, VTS Communication, Marine Safety
Official Report:
Join our network of Independent Mariners, and refresh your core competencies with us:
