GROUNDING AND CAPSIZE OF THE CREEL FISHING VESSEL LEXI ROSE

Report on the investigation of the grounding and capsize of creel fishing vessel Lexi Rose (BF 370) resulting in one fatality on Melrose Point, north-east Scotland on 21 September 2023.

Summary:

At about 1109 on the 21 September 2023, the creel fishing vessel Lexi Rose grounded, lost propulsion and capsized in shallow water on Melrose Point, Scotland. The lone skipper went over the side, suffered a head injury and drowned.

The key safety issues identified were:

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.

Safety recommendations:

No safety recommendations have been made.

MAIB REPORT

Source

Image courtesy of HM Coastguard