August 2024: Keeping a proper look-out when yacht racing

Background

In 2023, a collision occurred between a yacht and a commercial charter vessel within the Hauraki Gulf. The commercial charter vessel was anchored around 400 metres off an island fishing, while a number of yachts participating in a race approached the charter vessel. Two of the yachts did not change their course and continued directly toward the anchored charter vessel. One yacht tacked away close to the charter vessel. The other yacht was trying to clear a jammed winch and failed to see the anchored vessel behind its large headsail, colliding with it. Fortunately, no one was injured on either vessel and there was only minor damage to the charter vessel. However, this incident could have been avoided. The charter vessel reported the incident to Maritime New Zealand.

This incident is a reminder of the importance of understanding and following the Maritime Rules at all times, including when dealing with unforeseen issues on board.

In particular Maritime Rule Part 22: Collision Prevention:

Part 22.5 - maintaining a proper look-out

Every vessel at all times must maintain a proper look-out by sight and hearing as well as all available means appropriate.

While the crew on the yacht were trying to sort out the problem with the winch override, they were not paying attention to what else was happening around them. Additionally, due to the light winds the yacht was using a large headsail, which obscured vision and relied on crew members looking under the sail.

Part 22.7 and 22.8 – determining risk of collision and action to avoid collision

Every vessel must use all available means to determine if the risk of collision exists and take action to avoid a collision.

In this case, it is clear that the sailing yacht did not identify the risk of collision and therefore took no clear action to alter course as per Part 22.8 to avoid collision.

Key findings

Skippers are reminded of their responsibilities at all times even when yacht racing under the Maritime Transport Act 1994 and the Maritime Rules.

You need to keep a proper look-out:

• by sight and hearing along with any other available means that are appropriate for the circumstances and conditions
• even when there is a problem on board
• by reminding all crew to keep a proper look-out including under sails

You must determine the risks of collision and take action to avoid it:

• through having awareness of other vessels around you especially when you are sailing close to land or popular areas with high traffic
• by considering if you have a problem on board what measures you need to take in order to avoid a collision.

You must allow yourself time to avoid a collision:

• by maintaining a safe speed near obstructions including stationary vessels
• remember when sailing there are situations that you are required to give way to other vessels.

Remember that if you are involved in a mishap, accident or an incident you have the obligation to notify Maritime New Zealand as soon as practical. This applies to all vessels, including recreational sailing yachts.

You can make a notification here: