The UK Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) has published its findings on the flooding of the stern trawler Opportune, which sank off the coast of Scotland on March 24, 2024. The 23.95-meter vessel foundered 36 miles east of Lerwick, leading to the rescue of its eight crew members by coastguard helicopters. Unfortunately, the Opportune was not recovered, and the cause of the flooding remains uncertain.
The investigation identified several key safety issues. The vessel sank due to a rapid and uncontrolled flood in the engine room, likely caused by a failure in the seawater pipework, which was over 20 years old and difficult to inspect. Corrosion may have gone unnoticed, contributing to the disaster. Additionally, the crew struggled to control the flooding because seawater inlet valves were not easily accessible, and electric bilge pumps could not be operated from outside the engine room.
In response to the findings, the Maritime and Coastguard Agency has been urged to update its guidance for surveyors and fishing vessel operators regarding seawater pipework management. The owner of the Opportune has also been advised to ensure crew members are well-versed in the seawater system and regularly practice flood response drills.
