A merchant vessel is said to be having a “dragging anchor” when the vessel drifts without holding power inspite of being anchored. Dragging anchor has been the reason for several accidents such as collision, grounding, or stranding.
Merchant vessels stay at anchorage for various reasons:
- Waiting for berthing prospectus
- Cargo discharge and loading
- For carrying out maintenance , hatch cleaning
- Waiting for Instructions from owners or charters
- Quarantine etc.
The main reason for a vessel dragging its anchor is because of rough weather conditions. In such situations, it is extremely important for seafarers to collect all necessary information to familiarise with the situation and prevent dragging of anchor as much as possible. Some important parameters that needs to be considered are:
- Prevailing weather condition of that particular area
- Safe position for anchoring the vessel
- Wind and tidal behaviour of that area
- Contact information of port authorities in case of assistance required etc.
At most ports, it is inevitable for a vessel to wait at anchorage and the time at anchorage can be for days or even weeks. During such times, the master and ship crew should identify possible dangers
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