The Capsizing of Towing Vessel Baylor J. Tregre: NTSB Findings

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has released its findings on the capsizing and sinking of the towing vessel Baylor J. Tregre near Galveston, Texas, which occurred on May 13, 2024.

The incident unfolded as the vessel was towing the barge MARMAC 27 on an 800-foot-long wire when it encountered severe weather conditions. The crew had to abandon ship into a liferaft and was rescued by the U.S. Coast Guard. Fortunately, there were no casualties, but the vessel sustained significant damage estimated at $2 million.

According to the NTSB investigation, the mate reported a sudden intensification of wind while the vessel was in motion. Despite efforts to adjust the towline, the force of the wind caused the vessel to heel and ultimately capsize.

Weather reports from the day revealed warnings of severe thunderstorms with strong wind gusts. The NTSB determined that the mate’s inability to maneuver the tow into the wind during the severe weather was the probable cause of the incident.

The 67-foot-long Baylor J. Tregre was equipped with dual propellers powered by diesel engines. It had recently changed ownership and was renamed by Trinity Tugs LLC in 2023.

Recovery operations successfully salvaged the sunken vessel and transported it to a dock in Galveston. The full Marine Investigation Report 25-21 can be found on the NTSB’s website.