RedactedNarrative: Vessel 1 was operating eastbound in the Pensacola Shipping channel and stuck a fixed green channel marker (#17). According to the interviews and statements provided, they were traveling approximately 20-25 mph heading east. 
  
  Operator said he was paying attention to his GPS and looked up and noticed the channel marker directly in front of the vessel.  He said he turned the vessel hard left to try to avoid hitting marker but was unable to react quickly enough. He said the front right side of the bow struck the fixed object, ( Channel Marker Green # 17) causing him and his passenger to get jarred forward into the windshield of the vessel.  He said he believes the vessel become airborne after impact.  He said after the vessel struck the channel marker, he noticed water entering the vessel.  
  
  He turned the vessel around and beached it at Ft. Pickens beach east of the fishing pier prior to the boat sinking. 
  
  He and his passenger sustained lacerations to their foreheads but other than that they were ok. They called for help and a friend came to pick them up by another vessel.  Once they arrived at Sherman Cove Marina, occupant went to the emergency room and received 6 stitches to his forehead.  Operator refused medical treatment. It is believed that he fell forward striking his head on windshield of the boat. ; 
  