Uk Marine Accident Investigation Branch

Freedom II Fishing Vessel Foundering Report and Safety Flyer Published

The UK Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) has published its accident investigation report into the foundering of the fishing vessel Freedom II (CN 111) on 21 February 2024. The vessel sank 11 nautical miles south-west of Oban, Scotland. MAIB has also issued a safety flyer addressed to the fishing industry containing safety recommendations and guidance.

Watercraft Accident Investigation Legislation Amendment

The Department for Transport and Marine Accident Investigation Branch concluded a consultation on amendments to the Merchant Shipping (Watercraft) Order 2023. The amendments aim to ensure accidents involving watercraft (recreational vessels with installed motors such as personal watercraft) can be investigated by the MAIB, and to correct minor drafting defects in the original order. Seventeen responses were received; minor stylistic amendments raised during consultation will be incorporated and the new legislation will be introduced as soon as possible.

Spirit of Discovery - Loss of Propulsion in Heavy Weather, Bay of Biscay, Over 100 Injuries, Fatality

The UK Marine Accident Investigation Branch published report 6/2026 regarding the passenger vessel Spirit of Discovery, which lost propulsion on 4 November 2023 while crossing the Bay of Biscay in heavy weather. Over 100 passengers were injured and one passenger later died from injuries. MAIB identified safety issues including propeller exposure and automatic shutdown, propulsion pods positioning at 90 degrees, and inadequate implementation of mass casualty incident plans. Recommendations were made to the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, classification societies, the propulsion manufacturer, and Cruise Lines International Association regarding electronic inclinometers, instruction manuals, and medical personnel qualifications.

Fatal Crew Accident on Ro-Ro Cargo Vessel Laureline at Purfleet

The UK Marine Accident Investigation Branch published Investigation Report 7/2026 regarding a fatal accident aboard the Malta-registered ro-ro cargo vessel Laureline at Purfleet on 13 July 2024. A crew member was crushed between a reversing trailer and the vessel's structure during loading operations. The investigation identified systemic safety failures including inadequate training on new vehicle deck safety procedures, ineffective supervision, and industry guidance relying on flawed assumptions about marshaller positioning. MAIB issued an amended recommendation to the UK Chamber of Shipping and Port Skills and Safety Limited to develop an industry Code of Practice for ro-ro vehicle deck safety.

Freedom II Foundering, Oban, 21st February 2024

MAIB published Investigation Report 8/2026 on the foundering of the fishing vessel Freedom II on 21 February 2024. The 15.94m UK-registered prawn trawler sank 11 nautical miles south-west of Oban, Scotland after progressive flooding overwhelmed the bilge pumps. All four crew were rescued uninjured. The investigation identified a likely vibration-induced fracture of the seawater suction pipe for the deck wash pump as the flood source, with additional pumps failing or unavailable due to power supply issues.