Captain Faces Charges After Ferry Runs Aground Due To Human Error

In the early hours of July 2, 2024, the 8,901-ton ferry Silver Breeze ran aground at Tomakomai West Port in Hokkaido, Japan. The vessel struck a breakwater near the port entrance around 1:05 a.m. while arriving from Hachinohe Port in Aomori Prefecture.

Although there were no injuries among the 140 passengers and crew members, the ferry suffered major damage to its bow.

Investigations by the Japan Coast Guard have determined that the accident was caused by human error. Authorities reported that the master of the vessel did not properly confirm the ship’s position and course on the radar or the electronic chart, despite being aware of the nearby breakwater.

During questioning, the captain admitted that the mishap was due to his steering error. Based on these findings, the Japan Coast Guard has referred the case to a prosecutor,…

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