The SAAF Forum

DATE: 14 December 2018

EMBARGO: None

SA NAVY – BERTHING INCIDENT BETWEEN SAS SPIOENKOP AND SAS DRAKENSBERG

The SA Navy confirms that there was a minor berthing incident that occurred on Thursday, 13 December 2018 at 15h30.

SAS SPIOENKOP collided with SAS DRAKENSBERG while entering Simon’s Town harbour, guided by the Naval Harbour Master and the Navy tugs.

SAS SPIOENKOP was returning from sea where she conducted engine trials when the incident occurred. There was a mechanical or communication system deficiency on-board the Frigate at a critical time when the ship was supposed to reduce speed. Despite valiant efforts
from the tugs to reduce her speed, SAS SPIOENKOP collided with SAS DRAKENSBERG which was berthed alongside. Both ships sustained minor damage above the waterline. The damage will NOT affect either the ships’ watertight integrity.

The cause of the incident is to be investigated and a Board of Enquiry will be established to determine circumstances that led to the incident.
Issued by: SA Navy Public Relations Officer