SIROCCO

General information

Course/Position

Latest news

Report: Bulk carrier broke lose due to excessive tension on mooring lines

On March 27, 2023, the 'Sirocco' broke free from its moorings at the Convent Marine Terminal in Louisiana and drifted down the Mississippi River, alliding with a moored barge. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) investigation revealed that the incident occurred due to excessive tension on the forward mooring lines, which exceeded the winches’ brake capacity in strong river currents.The NTSB emphasized the critical importance of proper mooring techniques, stating, “To reduce the risk of a vessel breakaway, it is important for vessel crews to understand the forces that act on a vessel when it is moored into a strong current at a dock.” The investigators recommended continuous monitoring and adjustment of mooring lines, especially as vessels load cargo and sit lower in the water.The NTSB also stressed the importance of preparedness, advising vessel masters to develop breakaway response plans and implement additional safety measures. These include keeping propulsion systems on standby and having anchors ready for immediate use: "Vessel masters should also consider incorporating additional safety measures such as keeping propulsion, thrusters, and steering systems on short standby and having anchors ready for immediate use (even if not required by the loading facility), and should be familiar with how to request tug support on short notice.” While no injuries or pollution were reported, the incident resulted in an estimated $5 million in damages to the bulk carrier, the barge, and the Mosaic Uncle Sam dock.

Sold

Huahai Shipmanagement Jiangsu (China) sold her for 16,5 Mio. $ to undisclosed buyers

Sold

SOLD EN BLOC WITH SMOOTH VELOCITY FOR 25,6 MIL USD TO HK BASED