RedactedNarrative: Operator #1 stated: I was heading south by the lighthouse when I had a problem with my tiller handle.  My boat all of the sudden turned to the left and I hit the other boat. 
  
  Operator #2 stated: I was heading north  by the lighthouse when all of the sudden vessel #1 turned right into me. 
  
  Investigation revealed:  Vessel #1 was heading south by the Barnegat Lighthouse and vessel #2 was heading north by the Barnegat Lighthouse.  Vessel #1 had mechanical issues with the tiller handle causing the vessel to turn hard to port.  Vessel #2 did not have time to take an evasive maneuver to avoid a collision.  Vessel #1 struck vessel #2 with it's bow on the port side amidships.