Vessel 1 was cruising downstream at approximately 20-25 mph. The operator, his girlfriend and her three children were on board. Vessel 1 was following Vessel 2, when Vessel 2 throttled back to idle. Vessel 1''s operator stated he was distracted by his girlfriend closing the watercraft''s walk thru window to the bow. The distraction caused him not to see Vessel 2 drifting in front of him so he could maneuver to avoid a collision. Vessel 1 initially struck Vessel 2''s stern, starboard side; contact between the two vessels continued for approximately 18 feet. Vessel 2 received damage to the stern and starboard side. Vessel 1 received damage at the mid-point on the port side. 

A boat safety check showed all required safety equipment on board and the three children, all under 13 years old, were wearing PFDs. Both operators have over 500 hours experience operating watercraft. No signs of alcohol impairment were seen in either operator. No enforcement action was taken.
Seneca                        