M2352

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6th May 2025

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Drug use on board superyachts

Initial Report

Our reporters sought to illuminate a potentially hazardous situation aboard a sizeable superyacht. The issue reported to CHIRP pertains to the levels of drug consumption occurring among the crew and passengers, fostering a drug-fuelled environment that presents a considerable risk to everyone on board. It starts with the senior officers down, making tender operations dangerous, especially after hearing about recent incidents.

The reporters stated that it is just nerve-wracking and wrong because they know how much drug use occurs on board and how unsafe it can be. The reporters wish to raise their concerns with CHIRP.

CHIRP Comment

CHIRP wishes to thank the reporters for highlighting this serious safety issue. The situation on board has escalated and compromised safety. CHIRP has addressed this matter with the Flag State, which has taken steps to investigate.

CHIRP appreciates Flag State’s strong support for this issue. If you encounter similar levels of danger, please report them to CHIRP.

Key Issues relating to this report

Culture – A dangerous level of safety is being demonstrated by the company by allowing the use of banned drugs to be used in everyday work operations involving passengers.

Local practices – Local practices have become the norm on board this large superyacht, resulting from feeble leadership from management and senior officers.

Teamwork – The reporters exhibited a shared mental model that prompted them to address the deteriorating safety situation, which is commendable. If you are facing a similar issue, please get in touch with CHIRP if you cannot express your safety concerns through the onboard leadership team or management.