UK Ports Detain Three Foreign Ships Over Safety Failures
The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) revealed that three foreign-flagged vessels were still under detention in UK ports at the end of February. These ships failed to pass crucial Paris MOU Port State Control (PSC) inspections.
One new foreign vessel was detained during February, highlighting ongoing concerns about maritime safety and pollution prevention.
How MCA Tackles Unsafe Ships
In line with recommendations from Lord Donaldson on preventing shipping pollution, the MCA now publishes monthly updates on foreign ships detained under the Paris Memorandum of Understanding (Paris MOU) regime.
The UK is a signatory to the Paris MOU, which sets out strict inspections for foreign vessels docking in UK waters. Results are recorded in the central electronic database, THETIS. This system flags high-risk ships and those with poor detention records for targeted future inspections.
MCA surveyors check vessels for compliance with international safety conventions. Ships failing these checks can be detained immediately until defects are fixed.
Ships Held in February 2023 – The Details
- DOUWENT (IMO: 8703139, Flag: Liberia – White List) Detained 10 February in Boston after 23 deficiencies found, including one serious safety management violation. The ship was released on 16 February.
- SHEARWATER (IMO: 6822216, Flag: Comoros – Black List) Held since 30 June 2022 in Leith with seven deficiencies. Major issues included faulty fire extinguishing installations and insufficient rescue boats. Still detained at February’s end.
- POSEIDON (IMO: 7363217, Flag: Iceland) Detained on 19 July 2018 at Hull for 10 deficiencies, including hull damage threatening seaworthiness and faulty fire pumps. Remains under detention.
- TECOIL POLARIS (Now Arves Oil) (IMO: 8883290, Flag: Russian Federation – Grey List) Detained since 6 June 2018 at Immingham, carrying 27 deficiencies. Defects include inoperative compasses, non-compliant lifesaving appliances, and invalid pollution prevention certificates. Still detained.
What MCA’s Detention Lists Reveal
Each detained ship is identified by an unchanging IMO number, flag state, and operating company. The classification society and recognised organisation responsible for statutory surveys are also listed.
The Paris MOU releases annual flag state performance lists—white (safe), grey, and black (high risk)—to guide inspections. Detentions are recorded for serious “Grounds for Detention” defects, such as safety management failures, fire safety issues, and pollution risks.
For readers wanting full defect details, the MCA provides further information on request.
With maritime safety a top priority, these detentions send a clear warning to foreign ships: fail to meet UK standards, and you won’t sail.
