RedactedNarrative: Vessel 1, heading eastbound, on plane in the spillway crosscut canal struck a partially submerged log.  The motor of Vessel 1 struck the submerged log causing the motor (remote steering) to detach and sink. Vessel 1 drifted to shoreline where then it took on water and partially submerged. Occupants were retrieved by a nearby boater and returned to the boat launch.
  The contributing factors are: Primary operator experience due to a lack of area knowledge and experience with this vessel. Secondary Operator Inattention because the operator saw the hazard failed to adequately perceive the danger and did not reduce speed.  PFDs were used by 2 passengers. Alcohol is not believed to be a factor.