On April 4,2009 operatorA was operating vessel LA-3309-FM (vessel 1). OperatorA was Westbound in the Rigolets near the CSX train bridge. At the same time, operatorB was operating vessel LA-8187-FE (vessel 2), Westbound in the Rigolets near the CSX train bridge. As both vessels travelled under the bridge, neither of the operators saw the other unril they were in close proximity to one another. The operator of vessel 1 turned to starboard to avoid a collision. The operator of vessel 2 turned hard to port also to avoid a colliision. As vessel 2 turned its starboard stern struck vessel 1 just forward of port stern. This caused severe fiberglass damage to vessel 1 on the port side, and minimal scratches and small chips in the gel coat on the starboard stern of vessel 2. No alcohol or drug use is suspected to be a factor. All PFD requirements were met.
Slidell                       