On May 9, 2022, the ship Sea Light it crashed into the pier at the Sitka Sound Cruise Terminal, causing minor intrusion and extensive damage to the last pier. The disaster affected the number of cruise ships arriving at the port throughout the 2022 season and cost a lot of money.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has conducted an extensive investigation and released his report on the incident. The report paints a fascinating picture of how one human error and a seemingly trivial decision can quickly turn into a waste of millions of dollars.
Details of the Sitka Sound Cruise Terminal Incident
On May 9, 2022, Alaska cruise, 90,090 tons, 2,143 guests. Sea Light he approached Sitka Cruise Terminal Pier. The Lord of the Light of the Sea asked the sailors, who were four, that he and his crew moor and release the ship. This would also identify the ports of Alaska—the pilots agreed.
The Sitka Sound Cruise Terminal, which has been in operation since 2011, was recently closed a great addition in April 2021, increasing the length of the boat from 895 feet to 1,390 feet.
However, important information about the outbreak was not fully communicated to the Coast Guard and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). It was no longer on the navigation charts.
At the approach, the lord of Sea Light relied heavily on incomplete Electronic Navigational Charts (ENC). The ship began to circle too close to the dock, collided with the anchored dolphin and broke the three pilings that the dolphin was protected by.
Many mistakes
The NTSB investigation revealed that the collision was caused primarily by over-reliance on inadequate electrical charts by the master and bridge crew. There was also a lot of disagreement between the master and the ship’s crew about the ship’s departure from the hole during the round.
Failure of Sitka The port to report the boat’s expansion to the hydrographic regime was also identified as an important factor. When Sea Light it has an additional radar recorder and a camera on the back of the boat, both used for navigation and surface observation, which were not used at this time.
This incident highlights the importance of proper maritime planning and the need for prompt reporting by all who own ports, ships, or infrastructure.
Events that can lead to economic and employment consequences may be important. Surprisingly, this was already the second call Sea Light to Sitka in 2022, with no prior announcements.
Economic Impact of the Crisis
The collision resulted in approximately $2.1 million in damage to the Sitka Sound Cruise Terminal pier. This small house renovation project at Sea Light not specified but may be an additional cost.
In addition, the congestion caused by the increase in the number of large cruise ships will result in a significant loss of revenue from fines, transportation costs, and tourism revenue.
Despite strict regulations in the maritime industry, this incident highlights how human and communication errors can have serious consequences. It is an important reminder of the vital role that communication plays in ensuring the success of maritime operations.
Also Read: Your Guide to the Best Alaska Cruise Ports
Although there were no casualties, the combination of the port authorities’ failure to explain the changes to its yard, the pilots’ refusal to board the ship, the over-reliance on electronic charts, and the breakdown in communication between the Captain and the Bosun could have made the situation worse. results.
