2.16.6.3 DAMAGE CAUSED BY THE VESSEL'S ANCHORS OR MOORING
LINES
Whether near the coast, in rivers, canals or open sea, considerable care must
be taken when anchoring. An anchor may drop on, pick or become entangled with
a range of underwater pipelines and cables such as fresh water pipes, gas pipes,
electricity and communication supply lines etc. In such circumstances
the damage can be extensive
in some jurisdictions claims may be brought for consequential damages,
such as loss of fresh water supply and commercial losses suffered by consumers.
By way of precautionary measures the Master should therefore
carefully plan the location of an anchor manoeuvre
satisfy himself that the seabed is free of cables and pipes
after weighing the anchor, only make headway after the anchor is well
aweigh or, better still, out of the water
ensure that the entire anchor gear is secured to avoid the anchor cable
running out unnoticed when proceeding to sea
take in mooring lines before making headway.