On the afternoon of November 21, the 21 meter long catamaran ferry Katie Underwood (MMSI: 367142510) allided in Doboy Sound at the Sapelo Island, Georgia. The Katie Underwood was attempting to land at the Marsh Landing when the vessel struck the dock. Fortunately, there were no injuries to the 41 persons on board. State authorities notified the United States Coast Guard who has launched an investigation into the incident. Reports state the ferry was taken out of service until investigation and inspections are completed. The extent of damage and the cause of the allision was not disclosed.
On the afternoon of November 10, the 38.5 high speed catamaran passenger ferry Horizon 9 (IMO: 9732113) collided with the 182 meter long, 50280 dwt tanker La Digue (IMO: 9448724) in the Singapore Strait off the Southern Islands, Singapore. The Horizon 9 bow struck the hull of the tanker resulting in bow damage above the waterline. Fortunately, there were no injuries to 172 crew and passengers on board the ferry. The LaDigue did not sustain any injuries, damage or pollution released.
Singapore authorities deployed a patrol boat to the incident where it escorted the ferry to its berth. Local officials have stated there would be an investigation into the incident.
On the night of October 26, the 96 meter long catamaran ro-ro passenger ferry Manannan (IMO: 9176072) sustained damage on the Irish Sea. The Manannan departed from Liverpool bound for Douglas, Isle of Man on its final voyage for the season loaded with passengers and vehicles. As the high speed ferry proceeded down the Mersey, there was indications of a rough crossing. Winds were blowing over a force 7 (~35 mph) and the forecast of waves heights of 2.7 meters. Even with precautions taken and conditions still within operational limits of the Manannan, the rough seas resulted in damaging vehicles on the car deck. Damages to the individual vehicles were not disclosed, but reports state some 40 vehicles sustained some damage. Majority passengers on board suffered sea sickness and some reports of minor injuries.
Photo: Manxradio.com
When the Manannan arrived in Douglas, some passengers were taken by ambulance. Due to the pounding of the sea, the vehicles on the car deck had dislodged and could not be offloaded immediately. Passengers would have to wait to the following morning before they could pickup the vehicle and get an assessment on damages. Reports stated that conditions on the Irish Sea were far beyond the forecasted. No indication that any further inquiries will be taken on the incident.
