RedactedNarrative: Operator #1 Stated in effect: I was operating my vessel approximately 1/2 mile southwest of the Cape May inlet when I noticed an approaching vessel. About 30 seconds later I looked up and the vessel struck the rear port quarter. I was not hurt but called the Coast Guard immediately. 
  
       Operator #2 Stated in effect: I was traveling at idle speed coming out of the Cape May Inlet at approximately 5-7 knots when we noticed a center console drifting in the inlet. After changing course we passed the vessel on our port side. Approximately two minutes later, after exiting the inlet and traveling southwest, the same vessel passed us and turned to port. The unknown vessel then stopped. Once we approached the vessel same turned more to port and accelerated, I immediately turned hard to port but the vessel struck us in the bow and rotated to the starboard rear. We were not injured and awaited the Coast Guard.
       
       Investigation on scene revealed: Both vessels to be traveling southwest approximately ½ mile south of the Cape May Inlet and ½ mile off shore. At that time vessels 1 and 2 were traveling on a parallel course with vessel #1 in the lead. Vessel #1 the stand on vessel was traveling southwest at approximately 8-10 knots. Vessel #2 the give way vessel over took vessel #1.  Vessel #2 was cruising at approximately 8-10 knots at the time of impact.  Vessel #1 sustained moderate damage to the port aft of the vessel with several areas of cracked and split fiberglass. Vessel #2 sustained minor damage, several light scratches were noted in the starboard side bow gelcoat. Neither parties reported injury. Both vessels departed the scene under their own power. In conclusion, this vessel accident was caused by both operators inattention and failure to keep proper lookout to avoid a collision.
  