Reviews & Ratings for the Stena-Scandica

The Maritime Accident Commission recently unveiled its detailed investigation report regarding the fire incident aboard the 'Stena Scandica,' which occurred on August 29, 2022. The report emphasizes the commendable adaptability displayed by the skilled crew in addressing systemic faults during this crisis. The fire, which ignited on the carriage deck while the ferry was navigating north of Gotland, Sweden, en route to Ventspils, demanded immediate action. Although the crew successfully extinguished the flames, the vessel soon experienced a loss of power, rendering it adrift towards the nearby Fårö Island. In a swift decision, the authorities opted to evacuate some passengers via helicopter as repairs commenced. Remarkably, during the evacuation process, the crew managed to restore power and regain control of the ship. The commission's investigation revealed that the fire originated from a truck on deck 4, damaging vital electrical cables essential for the ferry's operation. These cables were inadequately installed above the vehicles, lacking necessary structural fire protection and redundancy. The resulting damage led to a catastrophic failure of the power supply system, resulting in a total blackout aboard the vessel. It was noted that the crew's emergency protocols relied heavily on standardized documents, which assumed all emergency systems were operational. Unfortunately, these procedures did not accommodate the compounded failures experienced during the incident, leaving the crew to navigate the crisis primarily through their resourcefulness and experience under pressure. In light of these findings, Stena Line has taken proactive measures by enhancing safety protocols, including the installation of fire-retardant materials to protect overhead cables on the carriage deck and several procedural improvements to bolster onboard safety. For those seeking further insights into the investigation, the full report can be accessed here: https://dmaib.dk/Media/638294013795551323/STENA%20SCANDICA%20-%20Fire%20on%2029%20August%202023.pdf

Stena Line Limited, the operator of the ferry 'Stena Lagan', has come under legal scrutiny after a grave incident left an employee with severe injuries. The incident occurred on September 17, 2017, at the company's port terminal located in Birkenhead, Wirral. During unloading operations, George Ball, who was working as a pontoon traffic marshall, was struck by a 3.5-tonne delivery van maneuvering off the vessel. As the port service operative reversed the vehicle onto the pontoon area, it knocked Mr. Ball down before tragically rolling over his head and body. The consequences of this unfortunate accident were dire; Mr. Ball suffered multiple fractures, including serious injuries to his skull, ribs, and other bones. He also endured significant loss of vision in one eye and is dealing with ongoing double vision in the other eye, along with persistent mental health challenges. An investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) revealed critical shortcomings in Stena Line's safety protocols. The inquiry found that the company failed to implement necessary physical barriers to ensure pedestrian safety around moving vehicles during vessel unloading. Moreover, it was determined that Stena Line Limited neglected to adequately assess pedestrian risks posed by moving vehicles, resulting in a lack of effective safety control measures and a secure working environment. In a hearing at Liverpool Magistrates’ Court, Stena Line Limited, based at Station Road, Ashford, Kent, pleaded guilty to violating Section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. As a result, the company has been fined £400,000 and ordered to cover costs amounting to £6,576.15. Following the court ruling, HSE inspector Rohan Lye emphasized the preventable nature of Mr. Ball's injuries, stating, "The risks to pedestrians from moving vehicles are clear and must be managed effectively. Had appropriate safety measures been in place, the life-altering physical and emotional toll on Mr. Ball and his family could have been avoided."

In a strategic move to enhance operational capacity, Stena Line has officially approved a significant lengthening project for the STENA LAGAN, a Visentini Class vessel constructed in 2005. The ambitious plan involves extending the ship by 36 meters, which will align its capabilities more closely with Stena Line's new E-Flexer Class vessels currently under development at the AVIC Weihai Shipyard in China. This upgrade demonstrates Stena Line's commitment to improving its fleet efficiency and competitiveness in maritime transport.