​Preventing Vessel Breakaways While Loading in Strong Currents​

To reduce the risk of a vessel breakaway, it is important for vessel crews to understand the forces that act on a vessel when it is moored into a strong current at a dock. Crews should ensure that slack is taken out of lines as the vessel loads, especially as the forward draft increases and the bow begins to sit lower in the water, exposing more of the hull to the current. Continuously monitoring and taking up any slack from bow lines as forward holds are loaded can help to ensure that the bow does not come away from the dock. Developing a response plan for a breakaway can ensure that crews are prepared to respond when one occurs. Vessel masters should also consider incorporating additional safety measures such as keeping propulsion, thrusters, and steering systems on short standby and having anchors ready for immediate use (even if not required by the loading facility). Vessel masters should be familiar with how to request tug support on short notice.