What Crew Members Say About Common-Faith

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has released its findings regarding a significant maritime incident that occurred on August 25, 2023, in the Houston Ship Channel. The cargo vessel m/v 'BBC Africa' (IMO: 9362621), while departing from Houston, Texas, encountered a severe steering failure that caused it to veer off course and collide with the moored bulk carrier 'Common Faith' at the Anderson Grain Terminal. The collision led to substantial damage, including a punctured post ballast tank on 'BBC Africa', resulting in repair costs totaling approximately $467,000. Additionally, the vessel’s bulbous bow, hull, shell plating, and forward bulwarks incurred damage amounting to $700,000. Thankfully, the NTSB confirmed there were no injuries or environmental pollution linked to the incident. Through the analysis of AIS data and interviews with crew members, the NTSB piece together the sequence of events leading to the allision. A crucial point noted in the investigation was the malfunctioning Voyage Data Recorder (VDR) on 'BBC Africa', which was permitted to depart despite its inoperative status due to ongoing repair arrangements. Pre-departure checks conducted on the morning of the incident indicated that systems were functioning properly, as confirmed by the 2nd officer and the ship's engineers. Initial moments after departing showed 'BBC Africa' cruising steadily at 6.8 knots, leading to the release of the escort tug. Maneuvering control was transitioned from the port bridge wing to the main control station, and during this process, the pilot commanded a series of rudder adjustments. However, when the helmsman did not observe the anticipated turning rate, a series of urgent commands were issued to correct the vessel's course. As the chief officer noted an issue when the control light went off on the main station, attempts to re-engage the controls failed, resulting in a critical loss of steering. The captain initiated emergency steering protocols, but despite their efforts to divert, the vessel ultimately struck the docked bulker. Investigators were unable to replicate the steering failure, but working with the manufacturer revealed a component malfunction due to invisible cracks in the joystick’s rubber that allowed moisture into the control unit. The shipping company responded proactively by replacing faulty control units on the 'BBC Africa' and two similar vessels. While the primary cause was identified as equipment failure, the NTSB emphasized the high-stress situation and the confined port environment as contributing factors to the crew's delayed response. Although training and drills had been completed, the report underscored the need for further training in emergency procedures. Additionally, the steering gear manufacturer issued a safety bulletin addressing vulnerabilities in systems made between 2002 and 2009, which could lead to unpredictable rudder activity due to micro switch failures. This incident serves as a critical reminder of the importance of equipment reliability and crew preparedness in maritime operations.

XO Shipping has successfully secured a new charter, marking a significant move in the maritime industry. The vessel will be delivered in the U.S. Gulf and is set for redelivery in Northern Spain. This charter engagement involves the transportation of petroleum coke (petcoke) and has a lucrative daily rate of $15,000. This deal reflects XO Shipping's strategic focus on meeting the growing demand in the energy sector.