The Apache: Crew Feedback and Vessel Data

On February 5, 2026, the Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) released its findings on a significant maritime incident involving the tanker 'Apache' and the fishing trawler 'Serinah-GH 116' (IMO: 912321884). The collision, which occurred on April 25, 2024, in the Firth of Clyde, raised alarm bells as it unveiled crucial safety shortcomings that could have resulted in a tragic outcome. The investigation revealed that after the tanker collided with the stern of the 'Serinah', the fishing vessel sank rapidly. Fortunately, all three crew members on board survived, although the skipper faced a harrowing 15 minutes in the water before being rescued by his crewmates, who managed to successfully deploy their inflatable liferaft. The report highlighted that both vessels failed to take adequate measures to prevent the collision, despite clear responsibilities under the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (IRPCS). One of the most concerning findings was that the crew of the 'Serinah' had not received any formal navigation training, leaving them ill-equipped to recognize emerging dangers or understand their roles in ensuring maritime safety. The MAIB emphasized that although the 'Apache' was the give-way vessel, the crew erroneously assumed that the trawler would yield based on prior experiences, resulting in no evasive action being taken. The collision happened shortly after 3:00 p.m., while the 'Serinah' was executing circular fishing tows in a seabed depression. As the tanker’s bow ran over the trawler’s towing wires, the situation deteriorated quickly, leading to the trawler listing and ultimately sinking. Despite initial intentions to proceed to the pilot boarding station at the Finnart Oil Terminal, the 'Apache' only returned to assist after a reminder from Belfast Coastguard about its obligations. The MAIB report pinpointed critical moments that delayed a meaningful response from both vessels, largely due to assumptions about each other’s maneuvers and the perceived limitations of their operating environment. In light of the findings, the MAIB has issued three important safety recommendations aimed at bolstering navigation training for skippers and watchkeepers on UK fishing vessels measuring between 7 and 16.5 meters. Furthermore, the tanker management company, Nereus Shipping S.A., was advised to enhance the understanding of fishing vessel behaviors across its fleet. Meanwhile, the operator of the 'Serinah', S & B Fish (Agency) Ltd., has been instructed to ensure that all watchkeepers receive proper training and are well-acquainted with IRPCS regulations. In response to the collision, Nereus Shipping has audited navigational operations throughout its fleet and implemented updated procedures along with in-house training. Additionally, Peel Ports Group is taking proactive measures by improving monitoring capabilities at Clyde Port to align with vessel traffic service standards. For further insights, the full report is accessible here: https://www.gov.uk/maib-reports/collision-between-the-crude-oil-tanker-apache-and-the-stern-trawler-serinah-gh-116.