BIG SEA JSC PROMPTLY DEPLOYS EMERGENCY MISSION TO RECOVER LOST SHIP ANCHOR

On Apr 15, 2025, Big Sea Joint Stock Company (Big Sea JSC) swiftly responded to an emergency request to retrieve a ship anchor and over 300 meters of anchor chain that had fallen to the seabed due to a malfunction during the anchoring process.

WHEN THE ANCHOR GOES MISSING – A SERIOUS MARITIME INCIDENT AND HOW BIG SEA JSC HANDLED IT PROFESSIONALLY

In the maritime industry, every technical component plays a crucial role. Yet few realize that something as seemingly simple as a ship's anchor can lead to urgent, complex, and costly emergencies. Recently, the technical team at Big Sea JSC was called into action to conduct a critical underwater salvage operation after a vessel lost its anchor and more than 300 meters of anchor chain, which had fallen to the seabed due to a failed stopper mechanism.

When the “ship's safeguard” disappears – An incident that cannot be underestimated

An anchor is not just a tool to hold a ship in place—it is a critical element of maritime safety, especially when docking in complex environments such as ports, estuaries, or deepwater zones with strong currents. The loss of an anchor and its chain not only disables a vessel’s ability to remain stationary but also creates a risk of drifting, collisions, and potential damage to nearby vessels and infrastructure.

In this specific case, the anchor stopper failed unexpectedly, releasing the entire heavy anchor and chain system directly into the sea. The scale of the loss called for immediate recovery action to avoid further operational and financial consequences.

Industrial diving – A demanding and dangerous profession beneath the surface

Recovering an anchor and chain from the seabed is far from routine. Underwater, visibility is often close to zero, currents are unpredictable, and the pressure is extreme—creating an exceptionally hazardous environment for divers. The challenge intensifies when the object in question is large, heavy, and partially buried in the seabed.

Big Sea JSC deployed a team of certified professional divers trained to international standards, equipped with underwater sonar, live-feed camera systems, hydraulic cranes, and specialized support vessels. Every phase of the operation was executed under strict safety protocols, ensuring both operational success and the protection of human lives.

Big Sea JSC – Rapid, Precise, and Professional

Big Sea JSC’s professionalism is demonstrated in the way we assess the situation, plan strategically, deploy the right teams, and manage risk. Every salvage operation is not just a technical task—it’s a complex mission that demands speed, coordination, and above all, precision.

“We treat every dive as a survival mission—not just to recover lost equipment, but to ensure the absolute safety of our team and our client’s assets.”
— Team Leader, Big Sea JSC Diving Department.

From Incident to Insight – Maritime safety starts with the smallest details

This incident serves as a critical reminder of the importance of regular maintenance and inspection of anchoring systems, especially stoppers, winches, and anchor securing devices. A single unnoticed fault can escalate into a major issue if not addressed promptly.

Big Sea JSC – A leading provider of ship repair, marine salvage, and emergency services in Vietnam.
We are available 24/7 to support maritime enterprises, responding to every urgent call with professionalism, modern technology, and a deep sense of responsibility.

Hotline: 0906038119
Email:bs@bigsea.net.vn
Website: www.bigsea.net.vn