Operator #1 was heading towards Beach Haven Yacht Club within Middle Grounds Channel, when he struck an unknown object within the water column. His statement indicates Vessel #1 was in the vicinity of Lat and long given earlier in this report, also being between Buoys 9 and 9A and just to the right of the white shallow water danger buoy. Subsequent to striking the object, operator #1 realized he was taking on water.  He notified the Coast Guard and proceeded to Morrison's Marina, where he was assisted to the travel lift by Sea Tow.
Vessel was pulled from the water just prior to this investigators arrival.  An inspection of the vessel revealed that the starboard side propeller and shaft were missing.  The starboard side rudder was bent aft and protruding past the transom.
A return to the scene revealed no debris or partially submerged objects within the waterway.
Little Egg Harbor