Overview
- The ATSB found the primary harbour pilot failed to order a crucial course alteration as the 333‑metre Maersk Shekou approached the inner harbour in squally pre‑dawn conditions.
- The secondary pilot was engaged in a non‑essential mobile phone call at a critical stage and did not detect the missed instruction, while the bridge team failed to monitor or challenge the ship’s position.
- Investigators reported weather conditions were far worse than forecast and the entry occurred in darkness contrary to port rules for a vessel of that size.
- Four simulations conducted by the ATSB showed pilots could safely complete the approach in similar conditions, underscoring that human and communication failures were decisive.
- The collision dismasted the berthed Leeuwin II and injured two crew, the ship’s stern struck the WA Maritime Museum roof, the hull scraped the wharf causing a 1.8‑metre gouge, Fremantle Ports updated training and weather monitoring, and the Leeuwin returned after 14 months of repairs with sail training set to resume in early 2026.