This study examined powered craft operators’ ability to identify a kayak under differing visibility conditions. The kayaker was either wearing a dark PFD or a fluorescent shirt over the PFD, and…
Collisions between non-powered recreational watercraft (kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, etc.) and faster, wind or motor powered vessels can be catastrophic for passengers in the slower vessel.
Any boater experienced with congested waterways is likely aware of the threat of a collision, but prior to 2012 almost no scientific research on the topic had been published.
Recreational boaters and professional mariners alike often share anecdotal advice on boating safety, but that guidance can be of mixed value, and lacks scientific merit.
In 2012, Robson Forensic published research that quantified factors in small boat collisions such as visibility thresholds and boater actions that influence visibility.
This article provides an overview of that study, discussing the relationship between speed and visibility in small craft collisions, known danger zones, and provides tips for all vessel operators to reduce the likelihood and severity of marine mishaps. The complete study can be accessed here.
Seconds can make the difference. visibility weighs heavily.
Operator inattention and improper lookout are leading factors in marine accidents. These factors can be exacerbated by a vessel operator’s inability to see and identify a small craft in the water in time to make evasive maneuvers.
For the operator of a powered watercraft to take evasive action to avoid a collision, they must first detect and then identify the presence of the non-powered watercraft. Visual detection and identification must take place at a sufficient distance to allow the operator of the powered watercraft to alter their course, or take other appropriate emergency action to avoid the collision.
Recreational boaters should be aware of the conditions that may diminish their visibility, traffic patterns that put them at risk, and what they can do to make themselves and their vessels as conspicuous as possible.
Avoidance maneuvers
Mishaps most frequently occur when non-powered craft encounter faster moving vessels, such as speed boats and personal watercraft. With speeds often between 20 and 60 knots, it is practically impossible for the non-powered craft to maneuver its way out of a collision.
Identification distances & enhancements
This study revealed typical identification distances of a very small non-powered watercraft in the range of about ¼ nautical miles (506 yards).
At a closing speed of 30 knots, it may be impossible for the non-powered craft to take adequate avoidance measures. Any measures that can enhance your visibility to the approaching vessel can make the difference between a collision and a harrowing near miss.
Zones of vulnerability
With typical identification distances in the range of ¼ NM, there are many circumstances in which a non-powered craft can be suddenly revealed to powered watercraft, similar to a pedestrian “darting out” between parked cars and into oncoming vehicle traffic. Such circumstances occur when the small craft is obscured by: peninsulas, islands, larger craft, blind bends, piers, or docks.
Prudent course planning by the non-powered watercraft can avert certain vulnerabilities. Based on the results of this study, while a small craft is better detected against a land background, there is a point where traversing too close to shore can place the non-powered craft into a Zone of Vulnerability.
There are also conditions where a non-powered vessel would take so long to cross a channel that it could unexpectedly find itself in the path of a faster vessel.
In short, any existing conditions that mask key identification features of the non-powered watercraft will negatively affect identification distances. Most participants identified paddle flash as the first visual cue. However, wave conditions, white caps, and frequent wave reflections can mask paddle flash. This can be overcome by raising a paddle and intentionally flashing by simultaneously waving and rotating the paddle. The use of dark colored paddle blades is not suggested as it results in less reflection from the sun, thereby reducing the beneficial effects of paddle flash on detection and identification distance. The ability to identify a small craft over open water is made even more difficult when the small craft is between the approaching vessel and the sun.
The following recommendations provide small craft operators with a greater likelihood of avoiding a collision. These are suggested for inclusion in boater safety and education.
Powered watercraft operators should be educated about the following safety factors for avoiding a collision with a non-powered watercraft:
click here to access the full study.
To reprint any portion of the information on this page, please submit a request to inquiries@robsonforensic.com.
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