The UK Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) has published its report on the collision between the crude oil tanker Apache and the stern trawler Serinah in the Firth of Clyde on April 25, 2024. The incident occurred around 1503 hours, resulting in Serinah sinking rapidly. Fortunately, all three crew members abandoned ship safely and were uninjured. At the time, Serinah was engaged in fishing operations, while Apache was en route to the Finnart Oil Terminal.
The investigation revealed that both vessels failed to take adequate measures to prevent the collision, violating the International Regulations for the Prevention of Collisions at Sea (IRPCS). Apache’s experienced crew did not follow proper protocols, while Serinah’s crew lacked formal navigation training, leading to a lack of awareness regarding their responsibilities. The collision occurred when Apache’s bow ran over Serinah’s towing wires, causing the trawler to list and sink.
MAIB’s recommendations include mandatory navigational training for skippers and watchkeepers on UK commercial fishing vessels between 7m and 16.5m. Apache’s management is advised to enhance their understanding of fishing vessel behaviors, while Serinah’s operator must ensure that crew assigned to navigational duties are adequately trained. Chief Inspector Andrew Moll emphasized the need for improved compliance with navigational regulations to prevent future accidents.
