T&T: Delivery gone bad

[Joel Wilkins]

All,
  This past summer I had the opportunity to assist a Capt with several vessel movements of a 65' Irwin (don't worry, it's boating related, not just sail). Made about 4 trips to from repair facilities etc and then two legs of a delivery from St Pete, FL to upper Chesapeak. 
   
  This captain was also overseer of repairs by yard and ended up knowing the boat very well in the process. I too became intimately familiar with many of the systems as they were worked on, replaced, etc. 
   
  In summary our first delivery leg went off without a hitch (with exception of one storm) Second leg off cape fear we lost power at night and headed in. Turns out the turbo (6-354T) was blown and replacement needed. 
   
  We, Capt and I, left the vessel in Southport for repairs and did not expect to finish the trip for the owner as he said it was now close enough for him and friends to move it home. 
   
  Turns out, he ended up hiring another capt (based local to delivery point) to bring her home. 
   
  Here is where it gets interesting and sad....apparently an oil line was not replaced properly and the delivery Capt attempted a return to port. According to his account the steering stuck (chain and cable) and he ended up on the rocks. Hit hard enough to hole the boat and she ended up going down right at the jetty. She is being salvaged today.
   
  I wish I knew more details but just trying to mentally work through what my actions might be in such a situation. I can think of several options but not sure of HIS circumstances...
  engine into reverse....employ bow thruster to steer.....deploy anchor...don't start a delivery out with an unknown boat just out of repair...
   
  Thoughts?
  Joel Wilkins
  Miss Magoo
  C-45, #98
  S. Pasadena, FL
   
   
   
   
   

       
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