Collision between container vessel Cosco Hongkong and fish transportation vessel Zhe Ling Yu Yun 135 with loss of 11 lives
Location: East China Sea.
Accident Investigation Report 27/2011
Read our marine accident investigation report, which includes what happened, actions taken and subsequent recommendations:
(1,406.65 kb)
Summary
At 0218 on 6 March 2011, the UK registered container ship Cosco Hong Kong collided with the China registered fish transportation vessel Zhe Ling Yu Yun 135. The accident occurred in international waters off the coast of Zhejiang Province, China. Zhe Ling Yu Yun 135 sank almost immediately, with the loss of 11 lives. Cosco Hong Kong was not damaged.
Safety Issues
- the performance of Cosco Hong Kong’s OOW fell well short of expected standards. He did not correctly apply the collision regulations or follow onboard instructions
- Zhe Ling Yu Yun 135 and Cosco Hong Kong turned towards each other at about the same time when only about 1.5nm apart and with a closing speed of over 20 kts
- Cosco Hong Kong’s OOW was the sole lookout. In darkness, in adverse weather conditions, and among large concentrations of fishing vessels, he did not see that Zhe Ling Yu Yun 135 was approaching
- Even though many fishing vessels were concentrated in the area, Cosco Hong Kong’s master or OOW did not consider amending the voyage plan, reducing speed, or enhancing the bridge manning
Recommendations
Recommendations have been made to the China Ocean Shipping Company (COSCO) and COSCO Maritime UK Ltd (Cosmar) intended to improve bridge watchkeeping standards on all vessels managed by Cosmar and other COSCO subsidiaries. A recommendation has also been made to the Ministry of Agriculture of the People’s Republic of China aimed at increasing the survivability of Chinese fishermen following marine casualties.
This report was published on 14 December 2011.