Steering Failures Caused Vessel Collision with Navigation Beacon: ATSB Report

The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) released a report detailing how a lack of proficiency in steering gear operation and unclear procedures led to a containership striking a navigation beacon while departing the Port of Melbourne in May 2023. The boxship CMA CGM Puccini was transiting the Yarra River when it hit the beacon due to erratic steering behavior. Investigators found that a hydraulic bypass valve left open by the crew after an inspection caused the steering system to malfunction, leading to the accident.

The ATSB investigation revealed that several officers on board the ship were not adequately trained in steering gear operation and control modes. The terminology used for steering within the CMA CGM fleet was also found to be unclear, contributing to the confusion. The report highlighted that the crew’s incomplete understanding of the steering gear operation resulted in the incorrect configuration of the system hydraulics, leading to the steering failure and subsequent collision with the navigation beacon.

The incident occurred as the CMA CGM Puccini departed Swanson Dock in Melbourne under the guidance of a pilot and two tugs. Despite noticing sluggish rudder response, the master and chief mate did not communicate their observations, leading to the ship moving off course and striking the beacon. The ATSB emphasized the importance of clear operating instructions and terminology to prevent such incidents in the future. As a response to the findings, CMA CGM has revised its steering guidance and updated procedures, while Ports Victoria has enhanced towage requirements for ships transiting the Yarra River.

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