Summary of the Cause of the collision between the Motorships "Yuyo Maru No.10" and "Pacific Ares", was pronounced by the High Marine Accidents Inquiry Agency on May 20, 1976.
(Ship's particulars)
Type and Name of Ship: Motorship Yuyo Maru No. 10
Port of Registry: Tokyo
Shipowner: Yuyo Steamship Co., Ltd.
Gross Tonnage: 43,723 tons
Length: 227.10 m
Engine: One diesel engine which develops 18,400 HP
Kind and Name of Ship: Motorship Pacific Ares
Port of Registry: Monrovia, Republic of Liberia
Shipowner: Pacific Bulkcarriers Incorporation
Charterer: Eastern Shipping Co., Ltd.
Gross Tonnage: 10,874 tons
Length: 154.10 m
Engine: One diesel engine which develops 8,400 HP
(Damage)
The "Yuyo Maru No. 10"
The hull caught fire and exploded; it was towed out of Tokyo Bay after running aground, and subjected to cannon, air and torpedo attacks to sink it. Five crew members died and seven suffered burns.
The "Pacific Ares"
The forward part was crushed and completely damaged; she was engulfed in flames from the Yuyo Maru No. 10, resulting in 28 deaths and one hospitalized for treatment.
Formal Adjudication
The collision in this case is considered mainly attributable to the improper operation of the "Pacific Ares", but professional negligence on the part of the Master of the "Yuyo Maru No. 10" concerning her operation is also judged to have formed part of the cause.
The professional service of the Master of the "Yuyo Maru No. 10" under the First Grade Master license shall be suspended for one month.
