1. Detroit - Nicholson Collision 27 Aug 2000

2. Fuel Rig Spanwires
Tensioned Fore and Aft

3. Helmsman
overshoots half
degree course
change to right.
Stern closes Oiler.
Cargo messenger
passed aft.

4. XO takes Conn and
orders Left 20 degrees rudder to correct heading.
XO gets complement from CO and retains conn.
CO directs opening
to 180 feet.

5. Cargo rig
tensioned aft.

6. Fwd hose
returned.
Rig is detensioned
without Bridge's
knowledge.

7. CO leaves bridge
to get flashlight
XO notes closure at stern
and calls for CO.
CO returns to bridge
Ship's head is actually
fairly steady

8. XO orders series of left
rudder commands up
to 20 degrees to attempt
to get stern away from oiler.
Ship's continue to close.

9. XO orders Ahead Flank but
CO overrides with All Stop
to halt surge.
As rigs are cleared both
CO's take conn to
minimize angle.
Ship's collide