Maritime-Safety Articles
Piloting a superyacht can be an invigorating experience. The feel of the salt air, the wind in the sails, and the stunning vistas can create the impression of conquering the seas. However, beneath this adventurous façade lurks the harsh reality of maritime safety. As any seasoned sailor will profess, being on the open water is not without risks, particularly when it comes to boarding a vessel under challenging sea conditions.
Recently, a case study from CHIRP Maritime’s Superyacht Feedback highlighted the risks associated with boarding a superyacht. This knowledge sharing program brought attention to several design flaws that could jeopardize the safety of both maritime pilots and crew members. Prompting this investigation were a series of unsuccessful boarding attempts under adverse weather conditions, along with the vessel’s corresponding non-compliant safety protocols.
The shimmering world of superyachts belies a lurking danger beneath the surface. A recent incident underscored this starkly, bolstering voices that demand a revamped safety culture within the maritime industry. Here’s the story: A radio dropped into the waters off a small motor yacht’s stern, right under the propellers. The captain, evidently eager to retrieve the device, ordered a crew member to dive for it. The only hiccup? The process required a work permit— a protocol the captain dismissed with a wave of his hand, demanding evidence of such a law.