“The gear select morse cable, which is a mechanism that changes the vessel’s direction from ahead to astern - or forward to reverse, failed. When that happened, the gear became stuck in the forward position causing the bow to collide with a rock ledge. Fortunately, the vessel remained watertight, and the skipper was able to continue back to the main wharf.
“The most likely cause of the breakage was found to be metal fatigue due to movement and vibration of the cable,” she said.
During the investigation, Maritime NZ also found there was a lack of ongoing documentation for emergency drill procedures. However, this did not contribute to the accident.
Maritime NZ has passed several actions on to the Black Cat Group, the owners of the vessel, all of which have since been implemented. These actions include the need to ensure morse cables are suitably supported to prevent movement, which will help reduce overall stress and prevent another failure.
Maritime NZ has also censured the two skippers of Black Cat for failing to ensure emergency drills were documented in the vessel’s log. Maritime NZ has also censured Maritime Management Services, the company’s auditors, for failing to sufficiently audit the Black Cat’s training and documentation.
None of the 33 people on board were seriously injured during the accident. However, some passengers suffered minor and moderate injuries.
For further information contact:
RCCNZ Media Line
Phone 04 499 7318
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