2. Match synonyms

1.coast a) danger

2.to discharge b) shallow water

3.shoal c) sheer

4.extensive d) shore

5.heavy weather e) look for

6.in the vicinity of f) to unload

7.hazard g) proceed to open sea

8.yaw h) adverse weather

9.to seek i) near

10.get underway j) huge, extreme

3. Are these statements true (t) or false (f)?Correct the wrong ones.

1.The vessel’s anchor was aweigh.__________

2.The vessel was blown on to the shore, because the engine was not ready._________

3.The hull was damaged and water flowed inside the vessel._____________

4.According to MAIB, since 1992, 500 ships grounded. ______________

5.The vessel was at anchor off the lee shore.______________

6.Some ships grounded because mariners did not keep efficient anchor watch.__________

7.In general, masters of the grounded ships did not hear warnings of adverse weather._______

8.Masters should be aware of holding power of the anchor.__________

9.Masters must ensure that anchoring system can resist wind and vessel’s sheering. _________

10.Masters should wait to get underway following the forecast or sea conditions.___________

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Collision in Dover Strait

A passenger cruise ship collided with a container ship in a crossing situation in the Dover Straits. Both ships sustained serious damage including a very serious fire on the container ship.

Root Cause/Contributory Factors

1.The attention of the passenger ship's OOW was diverted by other tasks in heavy traffic;

2.The container ship reduced its available options for avoiding action by overtaking another vessel from the port side just when a close-quarters situation was developing with the passenger ship.

Lessons Learned

1.The collision could have been averted if one or both vessels have reduced speed in good time.

2. In heavy traffic situations, doubling of the watch should be considered if there is a possibility of the OOW being distracted by other tasks, such as the need for radio communication for reporting ship's position.

3. Vessels shall follow Rule 13 of the Colregs when overtaking any other vessel. In addition, when overtaking another vessel, careful consideration should be given to the side on which to overtake. Factors to be taken into account should include available sea room and the possible need to take avoiding action in respect of other vessels in the vicinity.

4. The OOW should not hesitate in reducing speed to avert collision if circumstances so require and should also be guided by Rule 8 (e) of the Colregs.

1. Answer the questions

1. What ships collided in Dover Strait?

2. What are the consequences of the collision?

3. What were the actions taken by the container ship in a crossing situation?

4. What could have averted the collision?

5. How should the OOW behave in heavy traffic situation?

6. What factors should be taken into account according to Rule 13?

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