News story

Safety bulletin 1/2026 (video) published

Published at the request of industry to promote the safety issues identified during the MAIB’s investigation to those involved in ship assist towage operations.

• From: Marine Accident Investigation Branch
• Published: 12 February 2026

Image courtesy of Ian Catterson.

Today, we have issued a safety bulletin to those involved in ship assist towage operations following the capsize and sinking of the tug Biter while assisting the passenger vessel Hebridean Princess off Greenock, Scotland on 24 February 2023, with the loss of two lives.

The bulletin, available via this link, contains details of what happened, initial findings, safety lessons and a recommendation.

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Published 12 February 2026