News Home
UK
World
Society
- Health
- Environment
- Religion
- Law & order
- Education
Politics
Business & Money
Science & Technology
Sport
Arts & Entertainment
Weather

MSC Napoli report blames overloading

Last Modified: 22 Apr 2008
By: Roz Upton

Investigators release the report into the container ship the Napoli, which was grounded off Devon last year, its cargo looted as it washed up on shore.

The report blames overloading and severe sea conditions, but the ship also had a critical design flaw, one it shares with at least twelve other vessels.

All ships are tested for strength around the middle area, the part of the ship that bends the most in storms, and has to have some give.

On the Napoli the bridge, engine and accommodation rooms were much further forward than on most ships. These areas don't have much give and it was at that point that the Napoli cracked last year.