MAIB Calls for Mandatory Navigation Training After Tanker–Trawler Collision in Firth of Clyde
What Happened?
The UK’s Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) found that neither vessel took adequate action to avoid the collision in line with the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (IRPCS).
On the tanker’s bridge, mariners incorrectly assumed the trawler would move clear, while the fishing vessel’s crew had no formal navigation training and were unaware of their collision-avoidance responsibilities.
Why It Matters?
The collision highlighted a significant safety gap — many fishing crews lack formal chartwork and navigation training, leaving them ill-equipped to assess risk or act in congested waters.
Under international maritime rules, all vessels must take avoiding action to prevent collisions. The MAIB report shows this duty cannot be assumed or left to chance — and that assumptions about other vessels’ behavior are dangerous.