In exceptional circumstances, typically during emergencies such as dike breaches, efforts are made to seal the breach by manoeuvring a ship into it. Often, this method fails due to the mismatch between the dimensions of the ship and the breach. Instances have been recorded where the ship, once directed into the breach, was then dislodged by the powerful current. Another frequent issue is the incompatibility of the ship's bottom with the seabed of the breach, leading to undermining. The ensuing strong current further erodes the seabed beneath the ship, rendering the closure attempt unsuccessful. A notable exception occurred in 1953 during a dike breach along the Hollandse IJssel, which was successfully sealed; a monument commemorates this event later.
In Korea, an attempt was made in 1980 to close a tidal inlet using an old oil tanker. Little information is available about the outcome of this attempt, suggesting it may not have been notably successful, especially considering the numerous subsequent closures in Korea that have utilized stone. Later Google Earth imagery indicates that the ship was eventually removed following the dam's closure.