Marine investigators in the UK have detailed the circumstances surrounding a ferry collision with a jetty that occurred during a routine berthing maneuver, jeopardizing the safety of 157 individuals on board the RoPax Stena Estrid. On January 7, 2023, the 41,600 gross ton ferry, which operates on the Holyhead, Wales to Dublin, Ireland route, experienced significant flooding after striking a jetty at Holyhead Port, the UK’s second busiest passenger ferry port. The incident involved 95 vehicles, 91 passengers, and 66 crew members.
The UK’s Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) reported that the collision resulted in a hull puncture, leading to approximately 500 tonnes of water flooding into the engine room and adjacent spaces. Fortunately, the crew responded swiftly by reinforcing the hull below the waterline, pumping out the flooded areas, and transferring ballast to stabilize the vessel. This decisive action enabled the Stena Estrid to continue the berthing process, safely disembarking all passengers and unloading vehicles, although the incident caused temporary closure of the port.
The investigation identified multiple contributing factors to the collision, including conflicting communications between the ferry and a tugboat that was assisting with berthing. The tug’s positioning limited its effectiveness, and the ferry’s master misjudged the approach speed due to unexpected strong winds. Furthermore, investigators found sharp protrusions on the turning fender, which the crew had not previously recognized as a hazard.
In response to the incident, Stena Line has taken steps to prevent future collisions, including the removal of the protruding brackets from the turning fender and investing in improvements for both terminals 3 and 5. Upgrades will involve installing new anodes, replacing damaged fenders, and renewing mooring dolphins, enhancing the overall safety of the port facilities.
