We would like to turn our clients’ attention to serious risks that must be considered when anchoring at Kucukcekmece, Istanbul. While a vessel may be directed to anchor at the above-mentioned location by the Harbour Master, the close proximity of underwater gas pipes and cables to the anchorage location create a high risk of damage to this underwater infrastructure, should the vessel drag anchor in bad weather.
This scenario was, unfortunately, recently encountered by one of our Clients, resulting in a significant claim by the gas pipeline and underwater internet cable operators for USD 11 million. In addition to the significant claim amount inevitably involved in this type of claims, the situation is made even more complex by the fact that the underwater pipes and cables are owned and operated by governmental entities, granting the claimants with a much stronger negotiating power.
In view of the above, we kindly remind all our clients of the importance of strictly observing the designated anchorage areas at all times. In addition to this, in case of being ordered to anchor at Kucukcekmece, Istanbul we recommend that the Master requests a written confirmation from the Harbour Master that the vessel will not be liable for any potential damage to underwater pipes and cables as a result of complying with such order.
We also recommend that the vessel’s communication regarding the anchorage instructions by VHF is recorded, as far as practically possible, as crucial evidence, should a claim arise.