What happened
At about 1147 on 13 April 2023, the recreational vessel Onepoto and the passenger ferry Waitere collided in the Bay of Islands, New Zealand. The Onepoto was on passage from Opua to Onepoto Bay. The Waitere was on a scheduled trip from Russell to Paihia.
The master of the Waitere suffered serious injuries and was airlifted to hospital.
The Waitere suffered catastrophic damage and eventually sank. The Onepoto also sustained some damage but was able to proceed under its own power to a repair berth.
Why it happened
Watchkeeping standards on both vessels did not provide safe navigation and it is virtually certain that they contributed to the accident.
The skipper of the Onepoto was distracted by a non-critical engine alarm. As a result, they did not keep a proper lookout and did not see the Waitere crossing in front of them. Once the skipper of the Onepoto noticed the Waitere, they were too close to take action to avoid the collision.
The skipper of the Onepoto was navigating the vessel at 20.5 knots (kt). Had it been travelling at a safer speed for the conditions, it is very likely that either the collision would have been avoided or the consequences of the collision would have been reduced.
The master of the Waitere did not see the Onepoto until it was about five metres (m) away, and they did not have enough time to take action to avoid the collision.
What we can learn
Collisions at sea can be avoided by implementing watchkeeping standards and adhering to the collision prevention rules.
Every vessel must maintain a proper lookout by sight and hearing and use all means available to determine whether a risk of collision exists. In a crossing situation, regardless of which vessel is the designated give-way vessel, both vessels must be vigilant and monitor the effectiveness of any avoidance action taken, such as a change of course and/or a change of speed, until the other vessel has passed and is clear.
All vessels must proceed at a speed that allows time to determine whether a risk of collision exists and enables the vessel to stop in a safe distance if required.
Who may benefit
All seafarers, vessel owners, vessel operators, boat insurers, boat clubs, local councils and harbourmasters may benefit from the findings of this inquiry.
