Operator2, vessel 2, was traveling in a northerly direction along hoop pole creek and was approaching operator1, vessel 1, who was heading in a southerly direction toward operator2 along hoop pole creek.
As the two vessels approached each other, vessel 2 turned toward the east in an effort to avoid colliding with vessel 1.  At nearly the same time vessel 1 turned east to avoid colliding with vessel 2.  Just prior to impact vessel turned sharply to the east in an effort to avoid a collision.  The additional course adjustments made by both vessels failed to prevent a collision.  The course corrections made resulted in a collision of the two vessels with the bow of vessel 1 impacting the aft/port area of vessel 2.
The gps coordinates of the collision contained in this report are an approximation based on statements from both operators.  Conflicting statements from both vessel operators and a lack of further evidence make it difficult to determine the exact location of the collision or the position of the vessels in relation to the main channel of the creek.  As such, these coordinates are not specific to the exact location of the collision and are only useful for showing the approximate area where the event occurred.
Operator1 stated high vessel traffic in the creek made it difficult for him to maneuver in such a way as to avoid a collision.  Operator2 claims vessel traffic was low.  Lack of further eye witness testimony makes it difficult to determine what role, if any, other vessel traffic contributed to the collision.
It is my opinion that both the operators of the vessels in this collision share some responsibility for the collision by failing to make the proper speed and course adjustments at the appropriate time.  Based on their own statements and the evidence available, the collision was most likely avoidable had each operator simply slowed down to idle speed.  Alcohol or other impairing substances do not appear to have played a role in this collision.
ATLANTIC BEACH