An Age-old Weight Problem

As with any investment, much thought and planning goes into building a new fishing vessel.  This is hardly surprising when you consider the financial implications involved.  

What is surprising, however, is that a number of new vessels are likely to fail their second survey.

Owners-to-be would expect to be supplied with a vessel that will pass the MCA survey; enabling them to be issued with fishing vessel certificates in order to register and to fish.

Safe stability is a crucial part of the survey.  A fishing vessel’s stability greatly depends upon its weight and centre of gravity.  As is the case for many humans, as a vessel ages it can increase in weight.  As time goes by, lots of minor changes to a vessel can add up.  Most of this change perhaps being higher up, it will make the vessel less stable because of the rise in its centre of gravity.

Rather than face unexpected future costs for vessel alterations, for them to pass stability requirements, the wise new owner-to-be should think again. Is that vessel with only narrow margins of stability such a good deal after all?

Do make sure there are sufficient margins for all those minor changes.

Do consult an expert and the MCA before making any major changes.

Do think ahead and ensure your vessel has sufficient stability for a safe and successful future!

If you would like any more information on above and/or the availability of any other fishing safety information please contact the Fishing Safety Branch.