Cargo ships engine breakdown in a seaway -How to deal with engine trouble




Attention To Engine Trouble

Alert other nearby vessels by means of whistle, VHF, Lights or Shaped objects for Not Under Command.

When the vessel is still capable of sailing ( or has steerage), move to a safe place first. Use the rudder and bow thruster to best navigational advantage. Then, anchor or drift around for repairs.



When drifting, select a place away from the shore or a sea route, taking into consideration effects of ocean and tidal currents, wind and waves.

When anchoring in deep waters, take the winding ability of the windlass into consideration


Towing or assistance of tug

A salvage contract shall be concluded based on instructions form the Company, except when danger such as stranding is impending. When you are pressed for time and a tug boat is standing by the vessel, try to conclude a towage contract to the extent possible.

When it is inevitable, conclude a salvage contract in compliance with Lloyds Open Form (LOF)

There was a case reported when the vessel had become unable to operate immediately after leaving the port and had assistance of a tug boat for leaving the quay, and later on, they had been charged for extraordinary rescue expenses.
To avoid such trouble, specify that it is important to confirm the contents of the contract prior to starting work.


Damage report

A damage report shall be submitted . Sketches shall be used wherever useful and possible.

When it is determined that it is impossible to repair the damage at sea, the Company shall be contacted immediately for the necessary arrangements for shore assistance.

When under a time charter contract, engine trouble immediately places the vessel on off-hire. All communication with the Charterers shall be carried out via the Company.

Deviation for repair

When temporary calling to a port other than a destination port for repair or moving to a safe place for repair at sea, record carefully the exact deviation Start and Completion Times, and the ROB of Fuel oil (FO / DO), etc.

The deviation report shall be completed in consultation with the Company.



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Welcome Shipsbusiness.com! Our articles are based on various shipboard activities, safe operation, maintenance and onboard procedure. These procedures are only indicative, not exhaustive in nature and one must always be guided by practices of good seamanship. Based on user feedback we endeavored to summarize each article to serve the international shipping community