Vessel 01 (V01) was traveling north on the St. Johns River approaching Mullet Lake Boat Ramp. Vessel 02 (V02) was traveling south on the St. Johns River away from Mullet Lake Boat Ramp. 


V01 and V02 were both power vessels meeting head-on while negotiating a bend in the river. V01 operator violated the following inland navigation rules:

Rule 5 - Failed to maintain a proper look-out.
Rule 6 - Did not proceed at safe speed.
Rule 8 - Failed to take action to avoid collision. 
Rule 14 - Head-on situation.

V02 Operator attempted to turn V02 even further starboard but had no room to maneuver due to the proximity of the river’s bank. V01 operator steered port (left) instead of starboard and further put V01 in the path of V02. 

As a result, the starboard side of V01 struck the rear port side and the motor of V02. The impact caused one passenger from V02 and one passenger from V01 to be thrown into the water. V01 then ran aground on bank of the river. 

The thrown passengers were able to self-rescue. V01 became disabled.

After stopping to render aid and contact emergency services V02 continued to Mullet Lake Boat Ramp where it remained until this Investigator's arrival.

Victim1:Stated they would self transport to be checked at a medical facility for complaint soreness.

Operator2:Stated they would self transport to be checked at a medical facility for complaint soreness.

St johns River
GENEVA                        