The Magleby-Mo-Wsk: Crew Feedback and Vessel Data

On September 1, 2022, a dramatic near-miss incident unfolded in the Outer Weser when the container ship 'Magleby Maersk' almost collided with a distressed sailing yacht. The urgent situation was mitigated thanks to timely actions by a local fisherman and a maritime pilot. Around 11:20 p.m., the MRCC of the DGzRS in Bremen received an emergency distress call from a solo sailor whose yacht was taking on water in the Weser fairway, located northeast of Mellum Island. The sailor had dropped anchor, but it failed and led the vessel to drift dangerously into the fairway under the cover of darkness. The MRCC in Bremen quickly mobilized the 'Hermann Rudolf Meyer' lifeboat from Bremerhaven and the 'Bernhard Gruben' from Hooksiel, while also alerting other vessels in the vicinity. Simultaneously, they coordinated with the Bremerhaven traffic center responsible for monitoring shipping movements. As midnight approached, attempts to contact the sailor via radio went unanswered, heightening the urgency of the situation. The fishing cutter 'Christine,' operating nearby, stepped in to assist. Crew members on the 'Christine' located the 10-meter yacht, which was only distinguishable by the faint flicker of a flashlight, as it had lost all power due to flooding. Conditions were exacerbated by swells reaching one to two meters, accompanied by a gusty north-easterly wind. The MRCC recognized the need for enhanced rescue efforts and deployed a Navy SAR helicopter given that the threat of a collision with the 'Magleby Maersk' lingered. By the time the lifeboats arrived on the scene, the fishermen had successfully established a towing line to the disabled yacht. A pilot aboard the container ship managed a minor course adjustment, narrowly avoiding a direct impact as the vessel passed safely. Once on scene, sea rescuers provided a bilge pump to the sailor to help manage the flooding situation. They took over the towing line from the fisherman's vessel and began the arduous journey to Hooksiel, all while continuously pumping water to keep the sailing yacht afloat. During this challenging passage, fenders meant to maintain space between the two vessels burst due to the rough seas. To avoid further complications, the 'Bernhard Gruben' took over the distressed yacht once water levels were stabilized. The convoy made its way to Hooksiel, arriving around 5:30 a.m., while the fishermen carried on with their fishing expedition. Fortunately, despite the harrowing ordeal, the sailor emerged from the incident severely exhausted but unharmed. For more detailed coverage and photos of this remarkable rescue, visit https://www.seenotretter.de/aktuelles/seenotfaelle/segler-entgeht-knapp-kollision-mit-400-meter-schiff.