They probably were, but by the time they realised what was happening, it was too late to start the engines. Thats what i got from reading between the lines, although it doesn't excuse them. Wouldn't judge without the full facts tho!
The concept that there are numerous bank account, inactive pensions, savings bonds etc, lying around dormant and unclaimed for a variety of reasons isn't a scam, but paying £1.50 a minute for a 6 minute call is, when the chances of your surname actually turning up a claim on this line are low
Indeed, any judgement will come from an inquiry that has all the facts at hand. But I am merely commenting and this is a discussion forum so.......
Obviously for any vessel - it goes quite a bit deeper than simply keeping watch, good seamanship is a big part of it, and being aware of signs of dragging and being aware of changes in conditions and responding in a timely manner to them.
If it was a matter of engines not starting in time - then that would be a very poor excuse, as this should be taken into account in any anchorage, and more so on a lee shore. Perhaps systems failed and that does happen.
Personally, I am not a huge fan of complex systems at sea, particularly where they relate to sail control and other areas which don't leave much room for leeway if breakdown occurs. At the end of the day a lot of it does come down to good seamanship.