Manta-Fatma Vessel Reviews and Specifications

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has published a comprehensive Marine Accident Brief regarding an allision incident that took place on September 23, 2019, resulting in significant damage valued at $1.47 million to a wharf. The event unfolded at approximately 6:57 a.m. in Chesapeake, Virginia, where the tugboats 'G.M. McAllister' and 'Nancy McAllister' were actively assisting the bulk carrier 'Ijssel Confidence' on the Southern Branch of the Elizabeth River. During a maneuver to turn the bulk carrier, the 'G.M. McAllister' inadvertently collided with the NGL Energy Partners wharf. Fortunately, the tugboat suffered no damage and continued its operations, with no reported injuries or pollution impacts. The Marine Accident Brief highlights that two pilots were engaged for the undocking and sea transit of the bulk carrier, a standard procedure for vessels operating in this port. The docking pilot was responsible for easing the ship away from the berth and guiding it approximately five miles downriver, while a state pilot took over from there to lead the vessel to the pilot boarding area off Cape Henry, near the entrance to Chesapeake Bay. Both pilots possessed U.S. Coast Guard mariner’s credentials and had specific endorsements for their respective piloting areas. The docking pilot, affiliated with the Association of Virginia Docking Pilots, had significant experience in the region, having docked and undocked numerous ships. However, the investigation revealed that the conventional tugboats involved in the maneuver are less maneuverable than tractor tugboats typically used in such scenarios. As the 'Ijssel Confidence' neared the turning basin and accelerated, the docking pilot attempted to decelerate the vessel. Unfortunately, the ship's trajectory shifted toward the south side of the river and away from Money Point, leading to the allision with the NGL Energy Partners berth. The NTSB's investigation indicated that the docking pilot may have underestimated the slower responsiveness of the traditional tugboats and the subsequent impact on the vessel's speed. Ultimately, the NTSB concluded that the likely cause of the contact with the wharf was due to the docking pilot's decision to back downriver at a speed that hindered effective tugboat assistance. For full details, the complete report can be accessed here: https://www.ntsb.gov/investigations/AccidentReports/Reports/MAB2037.pdf