Report on fatal boat capsize off Scotland highlights risks of single-handed creel fishing
The UK Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) has published its report on its investigation into the grounding and subsequent capsizing of the creel fishing vessel Lexi Rose in northeastern Scotland on September 21, 2023.
At about 11:09 local time on the said date, Lexi Rose ran aground, lost propulsion, and capsized in shallow water on Melrose Point in Scotland. The lone skipper went over the side, suffered a head injury, and drowned.
Safety issues
An uncontrollable emergency can develop rapidly if working single-handed close inshore in adverse environmental conditions.
The propulsion loss was likely caused by operating the vessel close inshore where the outboard engine lower unit assembly, including its propeller, probably struck a rock and detached.
After grounding, it is unlikely the skipper had time to take emergency actions that might have improved his chances of survival, such as setting an anchor; raising a “Mayday” distress; and donning a personal flotation device (PFD).
The skipper’s chances of survival would have been improved had he been wearing a PFD.
Recommendations and other publications
The MAIB said that, given the existing industry guidance on the risks of single-handed fishing operations, no recommendations for single-handed fishing are made in this report.
A safety flyer to the fishing industry was produced with this report, highlighting the dangers of anchor use as an accident prevention method while working close inshore.
The MAIB had also investigated prior fatal accidents involving boats used for single-handed creel fishing in Scottish waters. Three incidents occurred in May, August, and October of 2021.
