The Sinking Sequence of MV Estonia

This thesis reconstructs the sinking of the RoPax Ferry MV Estonia on September
28th 1994, with a strong focus on describing the chain of events that caused the
eventual sinking, and how the ship sank. Once the sinking is understood, this thesis
explores possible safety improvements that should be implemented in the design of
new vessels of this type. The investigation is based on a combination of testimonies of
survivors as well as numerical calculations based on the framework of the testimonies.
Sea loads on the bow visor broke its locks and hinges. Consequently, the bow visor
separated from the vessel and with it the bow ramp was ripped open because of boxlike- housing of the visor at top of the bow ramp. The loss of watertight integrity was
followed by massive water ingress on the Main Car Deck and MV Estonia partially
capsized to a quasi-static equilibrium floating condition. This persisted for a few
minutes, whilst several side ventilation openings became immersed. From that time
on, a progressive flooding started, leading to consecutively submerged windows in the
superstructure failing and allowing further water ingress. Finally, at a list of about 130°,
the ferry hit the sea floor stern first and the bow subsided soon after.