Vessel 1 an 18'  fiberglass center console Century powered by a 150 HP Yamaha remote steer, was occupied by two (2) subjects and was being operated on step in Joseph's Harbor canal.   Vessel 1 was maneuvering to make a right turn and travel north towards Joseph's Harbor boat launch.   As Vessel 1 was making a right turn in the canal Vessel 1 experienced machinery failure and loss steering capabilities, causing the vessel to continue to travel towards rock jetties.  

Vessel 1 operator stated that before striking the rocks, he attempted to engage the throttle lever in reverse to avoid striking the rocks, but it was too late and his body struck the steering console of the vessel upon impact.  

Operator of Vessel 1 did not sustain injuries.  Vessel 1 passenger was sitting in front of the steering console facing forward.  As the vessel struck the rocks, her momentum threw her forward and onto the deck of the vessel.  She fell forward in the bottom of the vessel breaking in her left hand.  Vessel 1 went over the rock jetties and became grounded on the other side in marsh grass.  

Vessel 1 passenger refused medical attention from Cameron EMS, the next day it was determined by medical professionals at Our Lady of the Lake ER that her left hand was broken.  PFD's not worn, but available in the vessel.  Kill switch was worn, but not used.  Drugs and alcohol are not considered to be factor in this incident.  the main contributing factor to this incident is steering loss.

Joseph's Harbor Canal
Cameron                       