As widely reported in the national press, the 123,581dwt crude oil tanker Hanne Knutsen was involved in a collision off Egypt Point, Isle of Wight with the racing vessel Atlanta on the first day of racing during Cowes Week in early August. The yacht became entangled in the tanker’s anchor and had its sails torn off and mast snapped after appearing to cut across the bows of the tanker.
The force of the collision sent two of the yacht’s crew overboard and they were picked up by a rescue boat and a coastguard patrol boat from Southampton. After the collision it was announced the regatta would continue as normal, and the yacht was towed to the UKSA berths at Cowes.
Hanne Knutsen, operated by Knutsen OAS Shipping of Haugesund, Norway, was then able to continue her voyage to the Fawley Oil Terminal. The Marine Accident Investigation Branch were informed, and an official investigation will be carried out. RC
