Capsize of motor cruiser Norma G with loss of 1 life

Location: Camel Estuary, near Padstow, Cornwall, England.

Accident Investigation Report 13/2021

Read our marine accident investigation report, which includes what happened, actions taken and subsequent recommendations:

MAIB investigation report 13-2021: Norma G

Annexes to MAIB investigation report 13-2021: Norma G

Norma G

Summary

On 25 May 2020, a family were enjoying a day out on the water in the Camel Estuary, Cornwall, on their 5.4m motor cruiser Norma G. The boat was capsized by a large wave close to the Doom Bar. The owner’s 17-year-old daughter became trapped in the cabin when the boat capsized, and she was unable to escape before the cabin filled with water and she sadly drowned.

Safety Issues

  • the owner’s daughter died as a result of drowning after being trapped in the cabin of Norma G when it was capsized

  • Norma G’s owner’s limited boating experience meant he did not fully appreciate the dangers of being so close to the Doom Bar around low water

  • the owner’s daughter’s inflated lifejacket prevented her from swimming down and out of the submerged cabin door

Statement from the Chief Inspector of Marine Accidents

Recommendations

Recommendations (2021/129 and 2021/130) have been made to Padstow Harbour Commissioners to consider placing a navigation mark at the north-east extremity of the Doom Bar. A further recommendation (2021/131) has been made to the Wadebridge Boating Club to review and amend the navigation information available to users of the Camel Estuary.

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Updates to this page

Published 14 October 2021