Contact made by speedboat with moored motor cruiser Seraphica with both vessels sinking and 1 person injured
Location: River Dart, England.
Completed PE Summary: Speedboat/Seraphica
A short summary of the accident and action taken:
| Recreational Craft/Accident Details | |
|---|---|
| Vessel Name | Unnamed |
| Type | Speedboat |
| Date | 24/07/06 |
| Incident Type | Collision |
| Persons Onboard | 3 |
| Injuries/Fatalities | The driver suffered facial injuries |
| Damage/Pollution | Both craft sank |
Synopsis
The speedboat was in poor condition mechanically and fitted with non-standard navigation lights that were not in compliance with the Collision Regulations. During a late night river trip it struck the stern of the moored motor cruiser Seraphica. The damage sustained resulted in both craft sinking. The speedboat was uninsured. The driver of the speedboat suffered severe facial injuries but, fortunately, his two passengers were flung clear and were largely unhurt.
Action taken
The Chief Inspector of Marine Accidents has written to the speedboat owner to advise that:
-
The speedboat was considered to have been unfit for purpose.
-
The decision to use the boat at all was unwise but it was even more unwise to use the boat at night at low water in an unlit channel.
The Chief Inspector of Marine Accidents has also written to the local Harbour Master to suggest that he consider improving guidelines to harbour patrols with respect to the inspection of leisure craft.