The Roseline - Q.B.D. (Adm.Ct.) (Sheen J. with Nautical Assessors) - 16 June 1981

Collision action - Both vessels operating radar in dense fog - Apportionment of liability

The vessels Eleni V and Roseline collided off the Norfolk coast on 6 May 1978 in dense fog conditions. Visibility was about one cable. Both vessels had two radar sets in operation. Each vessel became aware of the other when about 6 miles distant. Both vessels were at fault for allowing a close quarters situation to develop and neither vessel was being navigated in accordance with the International Collision Regulations 1972. When initially observed, Roseline was very fine on the starboard bow of Eleni V but crossed ahead of Eleni V about five minutes before the collision. A few minutes before the collision, and when Roseline was on her port bow, Eleni V commenced a turn to port. This changed a dangerously close passing situation into a dramatically dangerous crossing situation. Roseline did not notice this turn and took no action.