An ATSB investigation into the grounding of the tug Sea Pelican in Port Adelaide on June 10, 2025, revealed that insufficient planning and risk controls were significant factors in the incident. While maneuvering with the barge Rocksea, the tug made a wide turn and struck a sandbar, resulting in damage to its hull and water entering the engine room. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and the tug was repaired the following day.
The investigation found that the crew lacked accurate knowledge of the sandbank’s boundaries and the narrowing navigable channel. Chief Commissioner Angus Mitchell emphasized that pre-departure planning failed to adequately assess the channel width and address the sandbank as a navigational hazard. Furthermore, the tug operator, Maritime Constructions, did not effectively identify and manage risks associated with tug and barge operations in the port.
The report noted that regulations required a harbor pilot or a pilotage-exempt master for the operation, and discrepancies in understanding the roles of the crew contributed to the incident. In response, Maritime Constructions has updated its safety management system to enhance training and procedures, underscoring the critical need for thorough planning and robust safety protocols in maritime operations.
