On above date and time while patrolling underway Marine Police vessel Uniform in Lewes Canal a boat approached me saying that a boat had sunk in the boat ramp. I responded to the Lewes boat ramp and found a white fiberglass vessel that had capsized in on its Starboard side and was about 3/4 submerged underwater. I made contact with the registered owner / Operator and the three other passengers Passenger 1, Passenger 2, and Passenger 3. They stated that there were no injuries. Operator stated they went underway out of the Lewes boat ramp about an hour ago in his 22' Master Craft with Pennsylvania registration. They went out the Lewes Jetty into the Delaware bay to go fishing. Operator stated he has had 10 years of boating experience and the bay had about one to two foot swells. They were fishing for a short period of time when they noticed about six inches of water collecting in the stern of the boat. At this time Passenger 1 went into the helm to retrieve a bag she had stowed away and notice there was a large amount of water in the haul. Operator made the decision to head back into the boat ramp. They made it back to the middle of the three ramps and secured the vessel with two dock lines. all individuals on board exited the vessel and got onto the dock they could visually see more water colleting on the floor of the boat. Operator quickly went to get his truck and trailer to avoid the vessel from capsizing, however due to the amount vehicle traffic he was unsuccessful. The three other passengers stated that while.

After the removal of the vessel and examination a check vaulved located at the stern of the vessle failed and allowed the water to enter the haul. The vessel was totalled at the valued amount of $6,000.00 No violation were detected. Through interview with operator and passengers no negligent operation of the vessel was detected.
Lewes Canal
Lewes                         