Operator #1 stated in effect:

I was traveling eastbound on the navesink river, middletown twp., monmouth county. I Was heading towards the shrewsbury river and it was low tide. I must have traveled Outside the channel and struck a sandbar.

Investigation revealed:
Vessel #1 (vl), a black hull 35' formula 350 fx6, uscg documented vessel escape. Vl was traveling eastbound on the navesink river, Just east of the oceanic bridge. Opr #1 failed to observe that he exited the navigational Channel and began to enter shallow water during a low tide cycle. Subsequently, opr #1 Struck a sandbar causing vl to come to rest and became stuck on a sandbar just Northeast of the channel. As a result of the impact with the sandbar, vl sustained Damage below the waterline and began taking on water.

Prior to my arrival, all occupants were removed from the vessel and were Transported to navesink marina by uscg and a good samaritan. There was no injuries to Any of the fourteen occupants. Furthermore, tow boats us sandy hook, was on scene attempting to float the vessel. Thede-watering process was successful and vl was towed To navesink marina. Further inspection revealed, as a result of the impact with the Sandbar the starboard side bellow was torn which allowed water to enter the vessel.

Box66:
The vessel suffered from water intrusion in bilge, the engine compartment and cabin. The Engines were completely submerged. Due to the severe water intrusion, this vessel was Considered a total loss by the owner's insurance company.

NAVESINK RIVER
MIDDLETOWN                    