Aging Towboat Sunk due to Corrosion in Empty Spaces.

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has completed its investigation into the sinking of the towboat Jacqueline A, which occurred off the coast of South Carolina. The vessel sank due to corrosion holes in small void spaces above the lazarette, leading to water ingress and progressive flooding through unsealed wire runs between compartments.

Originally built in 1981 as the Eric Paul, Jacqueline A had been in service with a towing company in Virginia since 2012. After being laid up for several years due to non-compliance with regulations, the vessel was scheduled for repairs in 2023. However, during a transit voyage to the repair yard, the towboat began taking on water and ultimately sank off the coast.

The NTSB’s report highlighted the importance of proper maintenance and inspection procedures to prevent similar incidents. It emphasized the need to avoid creating small void spaces where corrosion can go undetected, as well as the importance of sealing wire runs and other penetrations through bulkheads to prevent progressive flooding. The agency also noted that the crew could have conducted a more thorough inspection of the vessel before departing, potentially preventing the tragic outcome.

Source