Complete Maritime Profile & Reviews of Fmg-Nicola

The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) has published an interim report detailing a propulsion failure incident involving the bulk carrier 'FMG Nicola' that occurred during its pilotage at Port Hedland, Western Australia, on February 7, 2025. The report outlines that at 08:32 a.m. local time, the 'FMG Nicola' had completed loading a substantial 237,088 tons of iron ore and was set to depart later that afternoon with a predicted high tide of 5.56 meters at 16:34. By 1:30 p.m., two harbour pilots, one under supervision, along with the port authority’s marine services delivery manager (MSDM), boarded the vessel to oversee the departure. Following successful tests of the ship's main engine and steering at 1:48 p.m., the master-pilot information exchange was finalized for a smooth departure. Secured by four tugs, the departure commenced at 2:12 p.m. under conditions of a 25-knot north-north-west wind and 1.5-metre waves. The MSDM concluded inspections and left the vessel via pilot launch at 2:42 p.m., with one tug, the 'FMG Mako,' returning to base at 2:46 p.m. Shortly after 3:00 p.m., the vessel made a port turn, navigating at roughly 7 knots. As the ship approached beacons 32-33 at 3:14 p.m., the pilot ordered a heading of 334°. However, at 3:16 p.m., the propulsion system failed, and the vessel's main engine unexpectedly shut down while traveling at 8.3 knots. The pilot promptly informed the tug masters of the loss of propulsion and directed them to assist in maintaining the vessel’s course within the channel. An emergency notification was sent to Port Hedland vessel traffic service (VTS) at 3:18 p.m., with additional tugs requested. The ship's speed dropped to 7.4 knots as it began drifting towards the channel’s western side. Engineers on board identified that the engine shutdown was triggered by a non-cancellable trip due to low lubricating oil pressure, caused by the faulty operation of a pressure switch. After resetting the engine trip lockout system, the engine was restarted by 3:23 p.m. The vessel regained partial control, passing beacons 30-31 around 3:25 p.m., moving at 4.3 knots while still leaning toward the eastern channel side. Additional tugs arrived beginning 3:34 p.m., providing further support, and by 3:50 p.m., the vessel was secured back in navigating mode. By 4:35 p.m., three tugs were released, with the final two remaining until the vessel passed through beacons C1-C2 and finally into open waters. Post the incident, a complete inspection of the ship was carried out, confirming no physical damage was found. The crew continued to monitor ballast tanks on the starboard side, ensuring the vessel’s integrity. The ATSB has been actively collecting evidence regarding the incident, which includes thorough analysis and corroboration of the event's sequence data, vessel tracking, and response actions. A comprehensive final report will be available once the investigation concludes, allowing the ATSB to alert relevant parties of any critical safety issues that may arise.

Fortescue Metals Group (Fortescue) proudly celebrates the successful maiden arrival of FMG Nicola, its inaugural Very Large Ore Carrier (VLOC), at Port Hedland after commencing its journey from China. As a key enhancement to Fortescue’s logistics network, FMG Nicola marks the beginning of a fleet that includes eight VLOCs, each engineered to maximize shipping efficiency. These vessels are designed to optimize cargo capacity, improve loading rates, and ensure safe navigation within the port and its channels. Once the entire VLOC fleet is operational, it is expected to fulfill roughly 12 percent of Fortescue's total maritime transport needs. The momentous occasion was shared with Fortescue’s Chairman Andrew Forrest, who was accompanied by his siblings, Jane and David, to witness this significant milestone in the company's shipping endeavors.