The American Mariner was en route to Superior, Wisconsin, when it ran aground. NTSB investigators revealed that the master’s navigation was compromised by several factors, including transiting in the dark, unlit channel buoys, not fully utilizing the electronic chart system, and the absence of additional personnel on the bridge.
Never worked on the lakes, don’t know if this how things are typically done.
From the NTSB report:
Please correct me if I am wrong. A transportation and logistic company until fairly recently used to own and operate this 730’ self-unloading lake boat. Now, it is kind of owned by an entity that operates more like a hedge fund. One of the first things they did when they took over operation of these historically very profit vessels like the Mariner is - and you know the answer - is reduce those do-nothing-crew. Bye-bye professional wheelsmen, among others like engineers.
Those guys and their unions… Historically, in those restricted waters there would be two or three people on the bridge. A master having the conn, a license mate assisting the master (and learning) and a helmsman with his hand on the wheel. The bow and stern thruster controls would be at the front window ahead of the wheelstand where the captain would normally (or historically) be. But in MBA (that’s master of business administration) school “staffing” eliminates profit. Profit is king. When you buy something you must start showing a profit immediately. Also, that’s why in blogs about this company that now owns this vessel you see postings that talk about reduction in maintenance and visual condition of their vessels.
Remember a couple months back the discussion about the M/V Michipicoten? You know the ore carrier that the company claimed hit an uncharted rock in Lake Superior. Well, actually it didn’t. Hull fatigue caused a 160 inch crack and the boat developed a 15 degree list before the coast guard came in and took half the crew off. Well, we’re talking about the same company. But they used different names cause one boat is flag Canadien and one American.
Hopefully, the increase in insurance rates cut into the MBA School promised profit and exceutives and owners bonus money. If you think I am being more cynical than realistic, study the Boeing Aircraft Corporation.
At the time of leaving the dock many vessels have just the master on the bridge. The helmsman/ Bosun, a day worker, was letting go aft with two seamen . The mate forward with two seamen. One watch keeper stood down to stay within hours of rest. Two pilotages were more than two hours and all others were more than one hour on a feeder container ship of 600 TEU with port calls daily.
Master had pilotage exemption. Mates 6 and 6 in port. Master 8 to 12 at sea.
Another one of their boats is currently aground and listing at the ore dock in Marquette, MI. Word is “improper loading”.