Completed PE Summary

Dartmouth Speedboat

Category Leisure
Type: Speedboat
Date & Time 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 a moored motor cruiser. 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.