Originally Posted by JakeM78
Originally Posted by Calvin
Originally Posted by Crash_Pad
Knowing the ship's momentum too enormous to reverse, why did they not hold steady course? When power was restored, why did they not power up on a safe heading - knowing reverse could not save the day? No headway, no steerage. But, what do I know? Holiday Express was full last night.....

The “expert” talking heads on this are brutal. I just listened to an “expert” say the wind moved the ship.

A few things happen in reverse. First is you slow down. Second is your stern walks depending on a rh or lh screw.
I would also not be surprised if the report of tossing the anchor was false.

Like most reporting immediately after incidents, most of it turns out wrong.


I also don’t buy that they shut down the bridge to traffic. Zero time for that. They got lucky due to the time of day.

If the anchor was down, I'm assuming it was dropped after collision.

Per NTSB

12:39 DALI departs Seagirt Marine Terminal
01:07 DALI enters shipping channel
01:24 DALI traveling at 8 knots
01:24:59 audible alarms sound, VDR ceases sensor data recording, audio only
01:26:02 VDR resumes sensor data and audio recording
01:26:39 ship pilot makes VHF call for tugs in vicinity to assist (first indication of needing help)
01:27:04 pilot orders DALI to drop port anchor and additional steering commands
01:27:25 pilot issues VHF radio call that DALI has lost all power and approaching the bridge. MDTA orders bridge closed
01:29 DALI traveling at just under 7 knots
01:29-01:29:33 sounds consistent with hitting bridge
01:29:39 pilot reports bridge down to USCG


Me