RIASSUNTO
While transiting off the Southeastern Connecticut coast in 2019, F/V Emma & Maria experienced a knock down incident. This paper investigates the causal factors of this event, specifically focusing on stability challenges common to the New England commercial fishing fleet. After identifying contributing factors to the incident, an incline test was conducted to determine the center of gravity of the recently modified vessel. A stability, seakeeping and operability analysis, across a range of operational and worst-case conditions, is presented to determine the limitations of the vessel. To improve vessel operability, the addition of concrete ballast in the aft bilge is proposed, resulting in an improvement in both vessel stability and seaworthiness. Possible improvements to current fishing vessel regulations are also suggested to improve the safety of the fleet.