Insufficient planning and preparation and inadequate risk controls contributed to the grounding of a tug in Port Adelaide, an ATSB investigation has identified.On June 10, 2025, the tug Sea Pelican was in
Insufficient planning and preparation and inadequate risk controls contributed to the grounding of a tug in Port Adelaide, an ATSB investigation has identified.
On June 10, 2025, the tug Sea Pelican was in combination with the barge Rocksea, to maneuver out of the North Arm waterway and into the Port Adelaide River, in South Australia.
During the turn, the tug was maneuvered wide and contacted a sandbar.
The tug’s shell plating was holed, and water began to enter the engine room. Bilge pumping commenced, and the tug was slipped the following day for repairs. No injuries were reported.
The ATSB’s investigation into the serious incident identified planning and preparation for the movement were inadequate for ensuring all risks were properly addressed.
“The masters on board did not have accurate knowledge of the boundaries of the encroaching sandbank, and were unaware of the extent of the resulting narrowing of the navigable channel,” Chief Commissioner Angus Mitchell said.
“Pre-departure planning did not sufficiently evaluate the channel width available, or address the sandbank as a navigational hazard.”
The investigation further identified the tug operator, Maritime Constructions, had not adequately identified and controlled risks associated with the operation of tug and barge combinations within
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