What Crew Members Say About Hafnia-Amessi

A recent investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) reveals critical details surrounding the allision of the Hafnia Amessis with a military pier at Joint Base Charleston on January 14, 2024. This incident marks the second allision in two years involving large commercial vessels navigating the Cooper River. The report, published on March 24, 2025, outlines how the Hafnia Amessis, piloted by a member of the Charleston Branch Pilots Association, collided with Pier B at the Naval Weapons Station after veering too close to the eastern riverbank. This unfortunate contact resulted in an estimated damage cost of $8.1 million to both the vessel and the pier, though fortunately, no injuries or pollution were reported. The tanker experienced significant damage to its side hull plating as it made a starboard turn at a bend in the channel. The investigation revealed that the pilot favored the eastern channel side in anticipation of the next left turn, inadvertently subjecting the vessel to the effects of bank influence—a hydrodynamic condition that sometimes draws the stern toward the bank while pushing the bow away. Despite the pilot's attempts to regain control through rudder and engine adjustments, the vessel could not overcome the forces at play. Compounding the challenge, the flood current exerted pressure on the bow as it moved away from the eastern bank, resulting in an inability to navigate the turn safely without impacting the pier. The NTSB report also drew comparisons between this incident and a similar clash involving the Bow Triumph in 2022, where the tanker also came too close to Pier B. In response to these two incidents, the U.S. Coast Guard Captain of the Port for Charleston has implemented new safety regulations. Effective immediately, all vessels exceeding 10,000 gross tons or with drafts greater than 25 feet are now mandated to utilize a tethered two-tug escort when transiting between Pier B and Snow Point. Highlighting the inherent challenges of navigating hydrodynamic forces in shoaling-prone channels, the NTSB underscored that even seasoned pilots can face difficulties. The report discussed factors such as squat effects and shallow water scenarios that diminish rudder efficiency, urging vessel operators to account for these risk factors. Key recommendations include employing tug assistance, adjusting vessel speeds, or considering transit delays to enhance safety during passage. For those interested in an in-depth look at the findings, the full report can be accessed at the NTSB's official website: https://www.ntsb.gov/investigations/AccidentReports/Reports/MIR2511.pdf