Vessel ran aground following error on chart

• Closer control of the water depth indication and echo-sounder information was required. Officers need to be more aware of the location and accuracy of the vessel’s fitted echo-sounder and its limitations in shallow water.
• Suspected errors in navigational marks should be reported to Port Authorities, and any changes reported should be marked on charts.

• Management were to approach the appropriate authorities with the findings from the company investigation and communicate updates to relevant vessels. The responsible authorities were to update the channel navigation chart and consider adjusting the length of the chain on the buoy;
• Ensure that deck officers are fully aware of the importance of constantly monitoring the vessel’s draft and echo sounder whilst passing through a channel;
• Passage planning should be from berth to berth. When making any passage plan, it is of absolute necessity to ensure there is safe navigable water throughout the route to be taken. Any areas of concern should be indicated on the chart so that all officers of the watch are aware of any potential issues.

Two tugs were provided to recover the vessel from the grounding. The Captain and Chief Engineer conducted a visual inspection of the hull and several internal compartments to confirm that the vessel’s seaworthiness was not affected. A diving inspection was carried out and confirmed that around two square metres of coating were affected, but there was no severe damage to the hull.