Vessel 1 (54' hatteras) was southbound in the icw after manuevering around a corner to the starboard side the operator of vessel 1 started trying to use his gps/plotter.  While doing this he looked away from his course of travel and collided with a tug boat and barge(vessel 2) which was grounded to the starboard side shore. Vessel 1 struck the side of vessel 2 approximately 15' back from the bow along the starboard gunnel, then glancing off and riding along the steel support line between the barge and the tug until it impacted the barge leaving transfer matter and bending the containment pipe system on the barge deck. Vessel one completely destroyed its own anchor pulpit and sustained a 36' by 10" fracture of the outer hull on its port side approximately 8' from the bow and 20" below the gunwhale. Vessel 1 also sustained a severe fracture in the outer hull structure on the keel approximately 18" above the water line of the vessel. No injuries on either vessel, no fatalities. 

The operator of vessel 1 was issued a citation for reckless operation of a watercraft. During interview the operator of vessel one admitted that his twin engine vessel was only operating on the power of one engine and that it thusly caused him difficulty in steering at low speeds.  This engine condition existed before the incident mentioned above. 

CROWN POINT                   