An investigation by the Marine Safety Investigation and Reporting Authority (MSIRA) into the collision involving the motor vessel Mojaito revealed several safety factors associated with the incident. Photo: GIS

Chief Marine Accident Investigator Jerome Padmore has cautioned vessel operators that electronic navigation aids are intended to complement, not replace, proper visual navigation and the need for an effective lookout. Photo: GIS/File

31-foot Stamas 310 Tarpon named MV Mojaito struck a green steel lateral buoy located approximately 0.4 nautical miles south of the Brandywine Bay entrance, suffering structural damage which caused it to partially sink. Photo: GIS

The incident involved a 31-foot recreational powerboat named 'MV Mojaito', which collided with a green steel lateral channel marker while travelling from Virgin Gorda to Road Town after the annual Christmas in July event.

According to a press release from the Marine Safety Investigation and Reporting Authority, "At the time of the collision, the vessel was travelling at approximately 28 knots during nighttime conditions. No fatalities were recorded, and all persons on board were safely assisted following the incident."

Chief Marine Accident Investigator Jerome Padmore stated that several contributing factors were identified, which included an overreliance on electronic navigation, a decrease in situational awareness during nighttime navigation, difficulties in maintaining an effective lookout despite having several people on board, challenges in maintaining a safe speed in a buoyed and heavily trafficked area after dark, and the necessity for timely communication regarding navigational changes to ensure safe navigation.”

Safety measures recommended

In response to these findings, the MSIRA has issued several safety recommendations to the BVI Ports Authority (BVIPA) aimed at enhancing navigational safety in the waters of the Virgin Islands. These recommendations include improving coordination with the Virgin Islands Shipping and Maritime Authority (VISMA) to ensure the timely issuance of Notices to Mariners following buoy maintenance, relocation, or other changes affecting navigation, as well as enhancing communication protocols relating to Aids to Navigation to improve mariner awareness and overall navigational safety.

Padmore cautioned vessel operators that electronic navigation aids are intended to complement, not replace, proper visual navigation and the need for an effective lookout. He also urged operators to navigate at a safe speed appropriate for prevailing conditions, particularly at night and in areas with increased activity.

He further emphasised that "safe speed” does not merely mean travelling slowly in open water; it involves adjusting speed according to circumstances. This includes slowing down in channels, mooring fields, high-traffic areas, or anywhere hazards, congestion, reduced visibility, or the presence of people might impact safe vessel handling. Using sound judgment, adhering to the COLREGs, and practising responsible seamanship are essential for preventing collisions and injuries.