Executive summary
On Thursday 9 June 2005 at about 2011, the passenger freight ferry "Santa Regina" was entering Cook Strait from the Tory Channel when the ship departed from the designated passage plan, coming close to grounding on the rocks and islets at East Head. Avoidance action taken by the Mate/Master, who had the con of the ship, prevented the ship grounding and brought it back onto the designated course.
Safety issues identified included:
• bridge resource management
• training and use of modern retro-fitted bridge equipment.
Safety recommendations were made to the Managing Director, Strait Shipping to address these issues.
Related Recommendations
implement additional training for all Masters and officers who serve on board the company's vessels to ensure that they understand the full capabilities and limitations of bridge equipment, especially equipment that may have been retro-fitted, and its best use to enhance the navigation and safety of the company's vessels.
implement a programme on board the company's vessels to encourage Masters and officers to become familiar with and utilise all the bridge equipment to best advantage.