Msira Releases Findings on Mojaito Collision
The Marine Safety Investigation and Reporting Authority has published its report on the nighttime collision of the motor vessel Mojaito near Brandywine Bay. Investigators cited excessive speed, an overreliance on electronic navigation, and the lack of an effective lookout as key contributing factors. Safety recommendations have been issued to improve maritime notices and navigational safety protocols across Virgin Islands waters.
The Marine Safety Investigation and Reporting Authority (MSIRA) has officially published its Safety Investigation Report into the collision involving the motor vessel Mojaito in the Sir Francis Drake Channel south of Brandywine Bay, Tortola. The incident involved a 31-foot recreational powerboat that collided with a green steel lateral channel marker while returning from Virgin Gorda to Road Town following the annual Xmas in July festivities.
At the time of the nighttime accident, the vessel was travelling at an estimated speed of 28 knots. Although the collision caused significant impact, no fatalities were recorded, and all individuals on board were safely assisted from the scene. According to Chief Marine Accident Investigator Jerome Padmore, the investigation uncovered several safety shortcomings that contributed to the crash.
Key findings included an overreliance on electronic navigation tools, a decrease in situational awareness during night operations, and difficulties in maintaining an effective lookout despite having multiple passengers aboard. The report also cited the failure to maintain a safe speed in a buoyed and congested transit area after dark, as well as the need for timely alerts regarding changes to marine infrastructure.
As part of its formal report, the MSIRA issued targeted safety recommendations to the BVI Ports Authority. These measures focus on strengthening operational coordination with the Virgin Islands Shipping and Maritime Authority (VISMA) to guarantee the prompt issuance of Notices to Mariners whenever navigational buoys are maintained, relocated, or altered.
The authority also called for enhanced communication protocols regarding Aids to Navigation to bolster mariner awareness. Padmore reminded all vessel operators that electronic navigation aids are intended to assist rather than replace active visual watchkeeping. He stressed that maintaining a safe speed requires adjusting for prevailing conditions, including reduced visibility, congested channels, and mooring fields.
Marine authorities continue to urge all boaters across the Territory to practice responsible seamanship and strictly follow collision regulations to prevent future accidents.
Primary source: BVI Government