Real Life Incident: Close Call With A Submarine

A fast ferry was underway at near 21 knots when the lookout saw a submarine periscope at close range on the port bow. He immediately alerted the OOW, who observed from the periscope’s wake that the submarine was crossing the ferry’s bow from port to starboard.

Given this information, and assessing that there was an imminent risk of collision, the OOW told the lookout to take hand-steering and to apply 10° of port rudder. The further port rudder was put on shortly afterward to increase the closest point of approach (CPA) from the periscope. The OOW alerted the Master, who came to the bridge immediately.

About 45 seconds later, with the submarine’s periscope passing close to starboard at about 6 knots, the ferry was brought to a steady heading.

Submarine periscope as seen from ferry
Image Credits: nautinst.org

As it turned out, the submarine’s command team had made several errors that each contributed to the close quarters situation. The approach speed of the ferry was under-estimated (taken as 15 knots instead of 21) and the ferry’s range was overestimated. Both of these errors contributed to another critical error on the part the submarine’s command team to remain at periscope depth instead of deep diving out of harm’s way.

Close Call With A Submarine
Image Credits: nautinst.org

Lessons learned

This close call illustrates the importance of keeping a sharp lookout. Had the ferry’s lookout not spotted the periscope, a high speed collision with the submarine was a distinct possibility.

Turning to port to avoid a collision with another vessel on your port side is usually not the best choice of manoeuvres but given the speed of closure between the two vessels in this instance (27 kts), their respective positions and the good visibility, it proved to be the right one.

Reference: nautinst.org

Disclaimer :
The information contained in this website is for general information purposes only. While we endeavour to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the website for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.

In no event will we be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from loss of data or profits arising out of, or in connection with, the use of this website.

Disclaimer :
The information contained in this website is for general information purposes only. While we endeavour to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the website for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.


About Author

Marine Insight News Network is a premier source for up-to-date, comprehensive, and insightful coverage of the maritime industry. Dedicated to offering the latest news, trends, and analyses in shipping, marine technology, regulations, and global maritime affairs, Marine Insight News Network prides itself on delivering accurate, engaging, and relevant information.

About Author

Marine Insight News Network is a premier source for up-to-date, comprehensive, and insightful coverage of the maritime industry. Dedicated to offering the latest news, trends, and analyses in shipping, marine technology, regulations, and global maritime affairs, Marine Insight News Network prides itself on delivering accurate, engaging, and relevant information.

Read More Articles By This Author >

Do you have info to share with us ? Suggest a correction

By subscribing, you agree to our Privacy Policy and may receive occasional deal communications; you can unsubscribe anytime.

BE THE FIRST TO COMMENT

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *