Anchoring Near Subsea Pipelines and Cables in Turkish Waters

With thanks to the Club’s correspondent, Metropole Maritime & Trading Ltd. Co., recent incidents in Turkish waters have seen vessels anchoring too close to underwater pipelines and cables, resulting in an increased risk of damage. Such incidents can lead to severe financial liabilities, costly repairs, administrative fines, operational delays, and vessel detentions.

Anchors or chains may sever or damage pipelines, power or fibre optic cables, and protective concrete mattresses (ACBMs). Even suspected damage can trigger expensive administrative investigations, while removing entangled anchors is extremely.

To mitigate these risks, always use the most up-to-date and largest scale charts, plan anchoring operations carefully, having consideration to all relevant factors, maintain a proper anchor watch, keep detailed logbook entries, and record all instructions from Vessel Traffic Services (VTS) and Port Control. Careful attention and the maintenance of high standards in navigational procedures are important. Members are strongly advised to circulate this advisory to all Masters and crews to ensure these precautions are rigorously observed when anchoring in Turkish waters.

Members are advised to seek the most up-to-date information details through their local agents or the Club’s Correspondents.