Bar crossing

[joeT]

I came across this interesting incident report while searching stabicrafts:

http://www.maritimenz.govt.nz/publications/accidents/reports/Lucky%20No.5-051163.pdf

Its a maritime safety report about a fatal bar crossing incident in NZ. A real reality check about crossing bars, and knowing your limits, regardless of the vessel.

A few observations I had:
- stabicraft was overpowered with a four stroke and full tank of fuel. Rear could have been riding low contributing to the motor stalling
- skipper of stabicraft put his boat ahead of safety by refusing to abandon his vessel and asking his rescuer to tow in dangerous conditions
- skipper of Lucky No. 5 perhaps should not have gone to the rescue when he already considered conditions in the on the bar too dangerous to cross himself, especially with so many passengers on board

[roz]

Thanks for posting that, I think everyone who takes a boat out to sea should have a read.

r.

[seatime]

An unfortunate and totally avoidable tragedy.

Interesting how there's always conflicting recollections and observations when these things happen. The bar report was 1-1.5m, though one skipper reported higher waves. The fatality had a PFD on, but no PFD on when found? it's possible an ill-fitting PFD may have come off, or been taken off, when trapped in the up-turned hull.

Best to learn from other's mistakes, so you don't have to make them yourself.

[finga64]

Thanks for that Joe.
A timely reminder of the power and unforgiving nature of the ocean.

[murf]

Thanks joeT

puts lots of thoughts into your head about what not to do and what to do.

The more you read about accidents the better understanding and respect you can get for the ocean.

everybody have a safe Xmas on the water

Cheers Murf

[Grand_Marlin]

How sad.... and they were only trying to help.

No matter how good you think you are, or how much experience you have had, the sea is always one step ahead of you.

Geez ... how would you ever deal with that yourself? trying to do the right thing and in turn costing the life of a close friend.

Cheers

Pete