What Is Beaching Of Ships?

The ship’s master is responsible for the vessel while it sails in international waters. This means he must ensure the safety of his crew members and the ship. In times of emergencies, he/she must make difficult decisions, keeping in mind the consequences. One such decision which is also a test of the ship master’s wit and seafaring skill is the beaching of a ship.

What is Beaching of a Ship?

Beaching is an emergency measure wherein a ship is intentionally taken to shallow waters and grounded.

Beaching of a ship is done in areas with sand or soft mud so that the vessel’s hull, propellor, and rudder are not damaged.

Why Are Ships Beached?

The 3 main reasons why a ship is beached are:

• To prevent loss of ship due to flooding when there is major damage below the water line of the ship.

• To refloat the ship when repairs have been done and water-tight integrity is restored.

• To hand it over to the scrap yard.

Procedure for Beaching a Ship

• Ballast the ship to its maximum capacity

• Check where the damage is more on the side or stern side. Head with the damaging side for beaching with 90 degrees to the tides.

• Take all measures to avoid the ship going parallel to the beach (throw the weather anchor first).

• If approaching from astern due to stern damage, drop both anchors at a good distance so that they can assist the vessel in heaving.

• Sounding of all tanks must be done before and after the beaching.

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