Another capsize in the news. Last Saturday, the container feeder ship Deneb capsized at the Maersk terminal in Algeciras, Spain. Cargo handling had been shut down due to stability concerns. A few hours later the ship rapidly listed to 50 degrees. Two crew members, including the captain were slightly injured. A Svitzer salvage vessel is now unloading the capsized container ship.
Old Salt Blog
a virtual port of call for all those who love the sea , hosted by nautical novelist Rick Spilman
A container ship capsizing at dock? This story makes me a litter nervous as my Honda S-2000 is crossing the Pacific on a container ship now, en route to Long Beach.
Back in the day when cargo was loaded and discharged at 10 tons an hour, small ships like the Deneb had it easier. Now that containers can weigh up to 20 or 30 tons and cranes can handle up to 30 picks an hour, the weight distribution and stability can change rapidly. The other huge problem is that someone in the engine room can start moving liquids around, pressed-up tanks suddenly go slack and the ship goes from adequately stable to wildly unstable. Small ships are fun and often dangerous.
I’ll bet your car will be fine.