If you've cruised the Canal you'll find this interesting . . .

[Richard in Panama]

The pilot loses control of a 57,000 deadweight bulk carrier [built 2012 estimated $24.5 Million value] which comes within about a meter of taking out the rail/automobile bridge crossing the Chagres River. Due to the efforts by the tug boat/captain and the vessel’s crew dropping the anchor (see splash) they were able to just barely divert a serious accident. Go ahead – click the picture!

[delgados129]

Amazing!!!!

 

Here's a write-up on the incident: http://maritimesecurity.asia/free-2/maritime-security-asia/flawless-crew-work-saves-bulk-carrier-from-disaster-video/

[CruiserBruce]

Excellent video!!

 

Looks like, late in the video, both anchors are down.

 

Then there is the camera person, standing on the end of the bridge almost struck. Wonder if he would have been tossed around a bit by the collision, had it happened?

[moggyhill]

I wonder if this was Captain Schettino at the helm??????

[CruiserBruce]

I wonder if this was Captain Schettino at the helm??????

 

I would guess, based upon Richard in Panama's statement "the pilot lost control" would mean a loss of power and steerage, a mechanical problem and always serious.

[BillB48]

Great vid..... A few folks really dodged a bullet on that one:eek:! Love to find out the particulars..... I would think engine, steering failure are the most likely suspects.

[Northern Aurora]

Thanks so much for posting. Very interesting.

[KirkNC]

Unbelievable! Thanks for the story.

[cruisin'tex]

the pilot loses control of a 57,000 deadweight bulk carrier [built 2012 estimated $24.5 million value] which comes within about a meter of taking out the rail/automobile bridge crossing the chagres river. Due to the efforts by the tug boat/captain and the vessel’s crew dropping the anchor (see splash) they were able to just barely divert a serious accident. go ahead – click the picture!

 

wow!!!!