The UK Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) has released its investigation report into a flooding and sinking incident involving a survey vessel in Lynmouth, England, in 2021.
On July 6 of that year, the survey workboat Bella flooded and sank while carrying out hydrographic survey operations in the approaches to Lynmouth.
The boat's crew abandoned into a liferaft and were rescued uninjured by a local boat owner. The incident did not result in pollution.
Safety issues
Recommendations
The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) has been recommended to provide guidance to certifying authorities regarding the application of the Recreational Craft Directive when certifying vessels for commercial operation.
Bella's owner has also been recommended to implement a safety management system for its vessels in compliance to the principles of the ISM Code.