An interim factfinding report on the allision involving the boxship Maersk Shekou at Fremantle last year revealed a miscommunication between the helmsman and pilots. The helmsman was steering to maintain a heading of 083 degrees, while the pilots were attempting an emergency turn to port using various maneuvers. This resulted in the ship hitting a historic tall ship and a museum, causing significant damage. The incident occurred in the early hours of August 22, 2024, as Maersk Shekou entered Fremantle’s harbor with two pilots on board.
As the ship entered the narrow entrance channel for the inner harbor, strong southwesterly winds caused it to swing to starboard. The pilot ordered the helmsman to steer 083, but the helmsman was already countering the wind by steering hard to port. Despite efforts to correct the course, Maersk Shekou continued towards a pier, prompting emergency measures to turn the ship to port. The helmsman maintained a steady heading of 083, leading to a collision with a tall ship.
Efforts to avert the collision were unsuccessful, and Maersk Shekou struck the tall ship at three knots, causing damage to both vessels. The ship eventually came to a stop but continued to spin in place, resulting in further contact with the surroundings. The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) is conducting an investigation into the incident and will release a full report with formal conclusions upon completion.
