Operator #1 stated to the effect on scene. I was traveling South in the ICW approaching a bend and didn't see the other boat.

Operator #2 stated to the effect on scene. I was traveling north in the channel when the other boat made a left turn directly into me.

Investigation revealed: Vl was traveling south in the Great Flat Thorofare in the area of marker 432, Middle Township, Cape May County. At this time, Vl was approaching a turn in the narrow portion of the channel. V2 was traveling north in the same turn in the narrow channel. V2 slowed down as he saw Vl approaching the bend in the ICW. Vl made a left turn and drove into the stern of V2. No injuries were reported or observed on scene.

Vl sustained fiberglass damage to the bow, and was driven back to its dock/ V2 sustained significant fiberglass damage to the bow, and was driven back to its dock.

Operator 1 is at fault in this vessel investigation due to the fact he did not utilize "navigational rules" when approaching an obstructed bend in a narrow channel as defined in the proper U.S.C.G. "Rules of the Road" in violation of rule number 9, defined as narrow channels.

GREAT FLAT THOROFARE
MIDDLE TWP                    