Vessel #1 was traveling north when the operator observed vessel #2 (barge and tug) heading south.  The operator of vessel #1 stated that he thought he had given vessel #2 enough space to pass.  Operator #1 stated that the tug sounded its horn twice and lit him up with a spot light. Operator #1 struck the tug on the starboard side at midship.  This caused a 2 foot dent in vessel #1, damaged stainless steel trim and broke a propeller off a whirly bird.  There were no injuries on vessel #1 and the operator continues to sail north after the accident. He did later anchor and wait to meet our officer. There was no alcohol involved.

A representative for the tug company was interviewed at a later date. He advised that the tug operator did report stiking a sailboat. The operator of vessel #2 stated that he powered down, sounded the horn twice and also activated the spot lights on the tug. He stated that after the collision the vessel continued to sail north. The tug and barge (vessel#2) needed to continue due to another barge and tug entering the channel.
Chesapeake City               