Mexican Experts Explain Causes of Cuauhtémoc Training Ship Accident in New York

Cuauhtémoc Ship Lost Propulsion

Adverse Maritime Conditions Contributed

Tugboat Withdrew Critical Support

The accident involving the Mexican training ship Cuauhtémoc at the Brooklyn Bridge was not caused by human error or technical failure, but by “external factors,” according to the Mexican Chamber of the Maritime Transport Industry (Cameintram).

José Manuel Urreta, president of Cameintram, stated that the incident was caused by a lack of necessary propulsion, strong wind gusts, and powerful currents that compromised the vessel’s stability.

“The ship lacked the necessary propulsion and was left at the mercy of the wind and strong current, leading to the impact with the bridge,” Urreta explained in an official statement.

Despite the incident, Urreta emphasized that the Cuauhtémoc crew is highly trained and that the vessel complies with strict international safety protocols.

Cuauhtémoc Ship Left Exposed by Lack of Propulsion

“The sea is a dynamic environment,” the leader of the Mexican maritime sector noted, adding that “variables like weather or water conditions can alter a perfectly planned operation.”

Urreta also clarified that incidents like this should not automatically be seen as operational errors.

“These types of situations do not necessarily indicate human or technical failures; they are part of the inherent risks of maritime navigation,” he added.

One of the report’s key observations was the role of the tugboat assisting the Cuauhtémoc during its departure from the New York harbor.

According to Urreta, the tugboat withdrew support from the vessel at a critical moment, thereby increasing its vulnerability to the surrounding adverse conditions.

The Cuauhtémoc had been docked in New York since May 13 as part of a public diplomacy and naval training mission, and was preparing to set sail for Iceland with just over 180 people on board.

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“During departure or docking maneuvers, a sudden current or unexpected wind gust can alter the ship’s course, even if all procedures are followed and technical and personnel support is in place,” the Cameintram president insisted.

He noted that vessels like the Cuauhtémoc operate under international regulations such as the SOLAS Convention, the ISM Code, and the COLREG rules, all designed to ensure crew safety.

Authorities Investigate Causes and Express Support for the Ship

Causes of Cuauhtémoc Training Ship Accident in New York – PHOTO: Screenshot from (X) Twitter

Meanwhile, Secretary of the Navy Raymundo Pedro Morales stated that investigations are ongoing and are being conducted with “transparency and responsibility.”

So far, local authorities have confirmed that the Brooklyn Bridge did not sustain structural damage.

However, the precise details of the incident have not yet been officially clarified, though failures in the towing system are among the possible causes under consideration.

Despite the complexity of the incident, Urreta reaffirmed his support for the Cuauhtémoc crew and its role as a naval ambassador of Mexico around the world.

Do you think authorities should review tugboat assistance protocols in international ports to prevent this kind of incident?

SOURCE: EFE