Tranz Rail Ferry, Arahura in near miss

["John Regan" <reganjd@clear.net.nz>]

 New Zealand news from The Press - February 04, 1999 

Arahura in near miss 


The master of the Cook Strait ferry Arahura had to take quick action to
avoid a collision with two yachts competing in a race in Queen Charlotte
Sound. 

After leaving Picton at 9pm on Tuesday the Arahura came across the yachts
beyond Mabel Island. The master sounded the siren but the yachts took no
notice, Tranz Rail spokesman Fred Cockram said. 

The master sounded the siren 20 to 30 times over a distance of half a
nautical mile, Mr Cockram said. Most of the yachts diverted course behind
the ferry but two continued in front. 

Eventually, the master had to reverse the engines. The master reported that
if he had not taken that action there would have been a collision, Mr
Cockram said. 

Tranz Rail is making a complaint to the Marlborough Harbour Master. The
names of the two yachts have been passed on, Mr Cockram said. 

Acting harbour master David Baker said he would help Tranz Rail follow up
the complaint. There were penalties for endangering the safe passage of a
vessel, under the Maritime Safety Authority. 

All vessels had to give way to vessels over 500 gross tonnes within
enclosed waters in Queen Charlotte Sound, Mr Baker said. At sea, power
vessels would normally give way to sail. 

http://www.press.co.nz/05/99020438.htm


John Regan
reganjd@clear.net.nz
Christchurch
NEW ZEALAND