New Zealand freighter oil spill

[Alvin Walton]

Originally Posted by firstdown

I just don't see how ships run aground with all the electronics on these ships. They have 3 systems that can warn them of shallow water or reefs like they hit. I have the basic stuff and I can tell you the water depth miles in front of me. I also can set an alarm to go off if I'm heading into waters of a certain depth. So if I don't want to enter into water that is less then 5 feet I set the alarm to go off if I'm within a certain distance of that depth.

If you operate in narrow channels near shallow water and you lose power the wind and currents will blow you any way it wants.

[htownskinfan]

Originally Posted by Alvin Walton

If you operate in narrow channels near shallow water and you lose power the wind and currents will blow you any way it wants.

Is that the case in this instance? If you do lose power on a big ship like that wouldnt there be backup generators to at least keep the electronics going? Hell if you lose power,drop anchor

[mooby]

Originally Posted by htownskinfan

Is that the case in this instance? If you do lose power on a big ship like that wouldnt there be backup generators to at least keep the electronics going? Hell if you lose power,drop anchor

I would think they have deadlines to meet, or something else that would prevent them from taking their time. Either way, it's definitely crazy that they still manage to hit reefs with all the technology on board these days.

[Alvin Walton]

Originally Posted by htownskinfan

Is that the case in this instance? If you do lose power on a big ship like that wouldnt there be backup generators to at least keep the electronics going? Hell if you lose power,drop anchor

I dont know what happened in this case.
I lived on a ship for 1.5 years so I know how bad stuff happens/can happen and how fast you can find yourself fuxxored.
Backup generators cant keep your prop going.
Depending on the ship type and the conditions it may take a minute or two to get the anchor down and or not hold or drag or even snap if you're in 15 or 20 foot troughs.