Stranded ship strayed too close

The Zhen Hua 10, which stranded at Rotterdam-Maasvlakte, was too close to shore as it waited for get permission to enter the port.

According a survey report of the Dutch Inspectorate of Transport, insufficient engine power (main engine 12,357 kW) and heavy winds – 7 to 8 Beaufort – may have combined to cause the grounding. However, experts point out that the ship – a converted oil/products tanker – had adequate power for a ship of its size operating under normal conditions, and might even have been over-powered for its present use. The Inspectorate suggests further investigation into whether the ships’ master was right to have the vessel with five high cranes onboard wait so close to the coast in such weather conditions. The captain’s counter argument is that he wanted to avoid a collision with neighboring vessels. The findings have been presented to the Dutch disciplinary court of shipping, the Chinese authorities and the Chinese shipping line. It recommends that master’s sail further off the coast or have tug escorts in weather conditions.

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