FACTS

1. When a vessel loses its anchor and begins to drift, it can increase the risk of collisions with other vessels in the vicinity.
2. Without the anchor to secure the vessel in place, it becomes vulnerable to being pushed onto hazardous or shallow areas, potentially causing significant damage to the vessel and posing risks to those on board.
3. A drifting vessel that has lost its anchor can collide with piers, docks, moorings, or other maritime infrastructure.
4. Dragging anchors can cause damage to sensitive marine environments, including coral reefs, seagrass beds, or other habitats.
5. Sudden movements or unexpected drifting of the vessel can cause falls, entanglement hazards, or other accidents, jeopardizing the safety and well-being of individuals on board.
6. Drifting vessels with lost anchors can disrupt vital services, such as telecommunications, internet connectivity, or energy supply, causing widespread disruptions and economic consequences.
7. Lost anchors may become entangled with underwater pipelines or infrastructure, leading to leaks or spills of pollutants, including oil or hazardous substances.

STATS

• According to a study by Skuld, a marine insurance provider, the percentage of direct claims relating to anchor losses has been increasing. In 2020, Skuld reported that there were 96 direct claims relating to anchor loss and removal, accounting for 5.2% of all claims during the same period.
• Over the last years, especially from 2019 to 2020, an increase of more than 20% of anchor losses/damages has been noted.
• Several incidents have occurred since October 2020 where cruise ship anchors or anchor cables have failed, often while trying to ride out winter storms.
• The MAIB has become concerned at the number of recently reported marine incidents where more than 38% have been involved cruise ship anchor systems failures.
• 3 experienced sailors died inside the chain locker on board a vessel. The first two were overcome while tying off an anchor chain to prevent it.
• Failure of climbing anchors leads to multiple deaths a year.