Crew Reviews, Ratings & Info for Atlantic-Huron

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has released its findings regarding the allision of the bulk carrier 'Atlantic Huron' on July 5, 2020, revealing that a singular set screw was incorrectly installed, resulting in a catastrophic loss of propulsion control. The incident occurred while the vessel was approaching the Soo Locks in Sault Sainte Marie, Michigan, causing it to collide with a pier at a speed of 6.8 knots, leading to damages estimated at $2.2 million. The NTSB's Marine Accident Brief 21/10 outlined the events that unfolded as the 'Atlantic Huron' tried to slow its approach. Instead of decreasing speed or reversing as commanded by the captain, the vessel accelerated due to a malfunction in its controllable pitch propeller system. Investigators traced this propulsion issue back to a small set screw involved in regulating the propeller's pitch, which had been removed and reinstalled over four years prior during a shipyard maintenance period. After the collision, technicians discovered that the set screw had been installed without any manufacturer-required thread-locking fluid, allowing it to gradually back out. This mechanical failure initiated a series of issues that resulted in the ship advancing when a backward motion was intended, all while still indicating an astern pitch on the bridge. Moreover, the NTSB noted a significant delay between the manifestation of the propulsion issue and the captain's decision to stop the engine. Alarmingly, at the time of the allision, the safety management system (SMS) onboard the 'Atlantic Huron' lacked explicit protocols for responding to a loss of propeller pitch control. An effective SMS should outline emergency procedures for various onboard situations, and had there been a specific policy in place, the crew would have been better equipped to address the critical loss of propulsion swiftly, potentially preventing the incident.

The Seafarers' International Union of Canada (SIU), which represents a workforce of 15,000 marine professionals across the country, is urging the federal government to implement a swift vaccination initiative for seafarers following a COVID-19 outbreak on the 'Atlantic Huron'. Currently anchored in the St. Lawrence River, the vessel was en route to Quebec City, transporting iron ore, when crew members began exhibiting symptoms. Initially, on April 1, all crew tested negative, but by mid-April, 18 of the 25 crew members had contracted the virus. The situation escalated when a deckhand initially reported illness, leading to another crew member experiencing vomiting and high fever shortly thereafter. The ship was forced to reverse its course and dock in Thunder Bay Harbour, where healthcare professionals boarded via tugboat to administer COVID-19 tests. Unfortunately, three crew members required hospitalization, and one individual had to be readmitted due to respiratory complications. This incident underscores the urgent need for vaccination protocols to protect Canadian seafarers and ensure safe maritime operations.

On April 8, 2021, the 'Atlantic Huron', a vessel belonging to the Canada Steamship Line, docked in Thunder Bay where several of its 25 crew members tested positive for COVID-19. While the company awaited confirmation from health authorities about the total number of positive cases as of April 11, they reported that there had been no significant interaction between the crew and the Thunder Bay community. The only moment of contact took place during the supervised transfer of crew members from the ship to a designated quarantine hotel, adhering strictly to the protocols set out by the Thunder Bay District Health Unit. Currently, the affected crew members are self-isolating in a local hotel and are reportedly experiencing only mild symptoms. Meanwhile, the 'Atlantic Huron' remains docked as a precautionary two-day disinfection process is conducted, in line with Health Canada guidelines. Once Transport Canada gives the green light, an entirely new crew will come on board to resume the intended journey to Quebec City. The Canada Steamship Line is actively investigating how the infections originated, especially considering the comprehensive COVID-19 safety measures in place. Prior to boarding on March 31 in Sarnia, all crew members underwent pre-screening, returning negative results from a subsequent PCR test. Additionally, PPE such as masks, gloves, and hand sanitizers were provided, along with strict instructions on social distancing for 14 days on board. The CSL has stated that they have not identified any breaches in their COVID-19 protocols, and they are collaborating with local health authorities to establish the source of the transmission.