Read Authentic Ratings for the Clara-B

In a concerning update, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has released its final investigation report detailing the collision between the tug 'Patrick J. Studdert' and the bulk carrier 'Clara B' on the Lower Mississippi River, which occurred on December 29, 2024. The incident unfolded at around 6:10 p.m. when the tug was moored at the Magnolia Fleet 122 docks for refueling, with five crew members on board preparing for departure to their moored barges across the river. At 7:29 p.m., the 'Clara B' was navigating upriver under the Hale Boggs Memorial Bridge, traveling at a speed of 8.1 knots with a pilot from the New Orleans-Baton Rouge Steamship Pilot Association, a pilot-in-training, and the ship's Chief Officer on board. Just moments later, at 7:32:03 p.m., the 'Patrick J. Studdert' commenced its journey, moving directly across the channel towards the fleeting area. Meanwhile, the 'Clara B' veered to the right side of the channel to safely pass another downbound tow. The pilot aboard the 'Clara B' detected the tug at 7:33:32 p.m. and attempted to communicate via VHF radio to alert the crew, but received no answer. Recognizing an impending collision risk, the pilot instructed the bridge crew to sound the danger signal and ordered the rudder to starboard. Unfortunately, the ship's whistle was blown a mere 32 seconds following this directive, just moments before the collision at 7:34:27 p.m. The 'Clara B' struck the starboard quarter of the 'Patrick J. Studdert' approximately 380 feet from the docks, leading the tug to list to port and subsequently flood, sinking in about 96 feet of water. The impact forced all crew members into the river, with four sustaining minor injuries and rescued aboard the nearby tug 'Mary Moran.' The NTSB's investigation determined that the primary cause of this accident was the tug captain's distraction due to the use of a cell phone. Records revealed that the captain was engaged in a voice call from 7:31 p.m. until 7:35 p.m., leading to a failure in maintaining a proper lookout. Notably, the NTSB pointed out the visibility of the 'Clara B' in the dark and its potential detection via radar. The findings emphasize the detrimental impact of personal electronic device usage on maritime safety. The 'Patrick J. Studdert' has been deemed a total loss, valued at over $2.3 million, while the 'Clara B', operated by Blumenthal Asia, incurred minor hull damage with repair costs estimated at $250,000. An oil sheen was noted downstream following the sinking, attributed to the 109,777 litres of fuel the tug held on board. The NTSB underscores the crucial need for vigilance and situational awareness among watchstanders, cautioning against the interference of personal electronic devices in their primary safety responsibilities.