On April 29th, 2023, Vessel 1 (17’ Gator Tail) was traveling through Barataria Waterway searching for “The Pen.”  Vessel 1 was operated approximately 7:00 AM, Vessel 1 collided with Vessel 2 (38’ Commercial Skiff).  Upon speaking with all parties, the vessels were traveling in opposite directions in a head-on manner.  

OPERATOR1 was looking down at his cellphone in effort to locate “The Pen” and upon looking up saw Vessel 2.  OPERATOR1 immediately attempted to correct his heading from a head-on collision and turned to his port side which caused impact on the front starboard corner of Vessel 1 and bow damage to Vessel 2.  

Vessel 2 sustained moderate damage in the form of fiberglass tearing and puncture with fibers exposed in the center of the box above the water line.  Vessel 1 sustained paint transfer on the bow and front starboard corner as well as the front mounted dual led cube bracket was bent and torn from the bow.  Vessel 1 had a passenger who sustained injury to his foot in the form of an open break which protruded through the skin.  Vessel 2 had 3 passengers and no one on board reported any injuries.  Required, wearable PFDs were on the vessels, but were not used during the incident.  

The primary cause of the collision was the inattention of the operator of Vessel 1.  Secondary cause was Rules of the Road (#1 Vessels passing head-on shall keep to their respective right).   No alcohol is suspected in this incident.
Barataria Waterway
Lafitte                       