Decision Simulator

Stena Estrid — 500 Tonnes of Flooding, Zero Injuries

Stena Estrid
RoPax Ferry · Terminal 3, Holyhead Port, Wales · 7 January 2026
Source: MAIB Report, released 2–3 September 2026

2Decision Points 3Possible Outcomes —Avg. Play Time

The Situation

You're on the bridge of a RoPax ferry arriving from Dublin in strong westerly winds (force 6-7), turning to port north of the berth jetty with a tug secured to your port aft quarter to help control the swing.

The Lesson

Confirm a tug's actual achievable control before committing to an approach speed in strong wind, and once a breach is confirmed, act on damage control immediately rather than waiting for a complete picture.

Human Element

A fast-closing approach in strong cross-wind, with conflicting ship-tug communication, led to hull contact with an unprotected fender — but the crew's fast, decisive damage control response is what actually determined the outcome.

Try the First Decision

Mid-turn, in force 6-7 westerly wind, you notice the vessel is being pushed toward the jetty faster than planned, and communication with the tug about its actual control margin has been unclear. Do you call for a reduced approach speed and re-confirm the tug's capability before continuing, or continue the manoeuvre as briefed, trusting the tug to manage the swing?

A. Call for reduced speed immediately and get explicit, confirmed communication from the tug on what it can actually achieve from its current position before continuing.

B. Continue the manoeuvre as briefed — the tug is secured and should be managing the swing as planned.

This is a preview — the full scenario branches from here based on what you choose, with real consequences and a debrief at the end.

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