Collision between powerboats Carrie Kate and Kets with loss of 1 life

Location: Near Castle Point, St Mawes, Cornwall, England.

Accident Investigation Report 6/2006

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

Carrie Kate-Kets.pdf (522.47 kb)

Annexes (1,454.13 kb)

Summary

On 16 July 2005 at 2220 (BST), in near darkness, two powerboats collided near Castle Point, St Mawes, resulting in the death of one of the helmsmen.

Safety Issues

  • the speed of the vessels
  • the lack of navigation lights
  • the training and experience of the helmsmen
  • that both helmsmen were navigating while under the influence of alcohol

Recommendations

As a result of our recent investigation into the high speed grounding of the powerboat Sea Snake, which resulted in the loss of three lives, and this investigation, a recommendation has been made to the Department for Transport (DfT) concerning the 3 introduction of an alcohol limit for leisure users. The DfT is also recommended to improve the harbour bye-law approval process. The local harbour authorities have been recommended to review the standard of leisure boat activities in their area.

This report was published on 24 February 2006.

Updates to this page

Published 23 January 2015