Keel failure and capsize of charter yacht Tyger of London
Location: 1 nautical mile south of Punta Rasca, Tenerife
Accident Investigation Report 13/2019
Investigation report into marine accident including what happened, safety lessons learned and recommendation made:
Summary
The UK registered charter yacht, Tyger of London, was sailing from La Gomera to Tenerife on the afternoon of 7 December 2017 when its keel failed suddenly and the yacht capsized. The crew, all wearing lifejackets, were thrown into the water and rescued by the British Army yacht, St Barbara V.
Safety issues
- yacht’s keel failed because it had not been manufactured in accordance with the design
- condition of the keel could not be monitored due to its unusual design
- the swift action of the nearby yacht and the crew’s decision to wear life jackets ensured they survived
- liferaft and emergency equipment on board the yacht could not be accessed, once the yacht had capsized
Statement from the Chief Inspector of Marine Accidents
Recommendation
In June 2018, the Chief Inspector of Marine Accidents wrote to British Marine to recommend (2018/119) that manufacturers are required to provide guidance on the inspection and maintenance of keels fitted to their craft.
Related publications
MAIB safety bulletin 3/2018: keel failures on sailing yachts