Vietnam Port Imposes Tug Rules After 182,000-DWT Bulker Tears Dock
Dung Quat mandates 5,000-hp tugs round-the-clock after Aquacharm rips 50-metre berth section
Vietnamese authorities have imposed new safety measures at Dung Quat port following a berthing accident involving a Japanese-owned bulk carrier. The incident, which occurred on October 18, caused damage to both the vessel and the dock infrastructure, prompting officials to enforce stricter protocols ahead of the monsoon season.
The 182,000-dwt Aquacharm, registered in the Marshall Islands and built in 2022, was carrying over 170,000 tons of iron ore from Australia when the collision happened. The 292-meter vessel, with a crew of 22, had been waiting offshore before a pilot boarded on the afternoon of October 18 to guide it into the Hoa Phat Dung Quat Iron and Steel Complex.
Collision Details and Damage Assessment: dung quat port safety
While maneuvering into Berth 10, the Aquacharm struck a section of the pier that was still under construction. The vessel successfully docked at 6:30 p.m., but inspections revealed a 5-meter tear across its bow, with damage extending along both sides of the ship. Fortunately, the impact remained above the waterline, and there were no reports of tank breaches, pollution, or crew injuries.
The accident also damaged approximately 50 meters of the pier extension between Berths 10 and 11. The bulker remains docked while authorities demand a plan to secure the vessel before heavy weather arrives. Operations are currently focused on offloading its cargo.
Emergency Safety Measures Implemented
On October 20, the port authority introduced new regulations to prevent similar incidents during the upcoming northeast monsoon season. Shipowners and captains must now coordinate vessel movements with port officials to ensure safe navigation in the area, which is prone to strong winds.
The new rules require at least one tugboat, equipped with Azimuth propellers and a minimum 5,000 hp, to be stationed near the Aquacharm at all times. These tugs must carry oil spill response, firefighting, rescue, and salvage equipment, and their crews must have experience in emergency operations to assist with safe maneuvers between the berth and anchorage.
Sign up free to ask CAMAL AI for a summary, the key points or anything else about this story.
Related stories
CAMAL AI
Financial Ports Newsletter
The maritime economy, every morning
Ports, shipping and freight markets in one short email. Free.
