202214 Hull breached by unprotected fender

è A tanker discharged its cargo and left the berth without apparent incident. While drifting near the harbour and awaiting orders, routine inspections discovered a puncture in the hull above the waterline. After investigation, it was deduced that the damage had occurred during the previous berthing and remained unnoticed since.

During that berthing, two tugs were used to push the vessel on the jetty’s fenders during the mooring operation. Although everything appeared normal at the time, it was later suggested that the upper edge of the fender was unprotected. Although the impact while berthing and from the tugs pushing was so minor that no one noticed, it was still enough to pierce the hull.

Lessons learned

• An inspection of the fendering after berthing to ensure proper cushioning is a good practice.