Stock image of an Isle of Wight Red Funnel ferry. Dave Smith 1965 / Shutterstock.com
A jet skier from Southampton has become the first person to receive a warning from the UK’s Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) under a new water safety law for jet skiers.
The incident occurred on August 4, 2023, at the entrance to Cowes Harbour when the man, in his 20s, steered his jet ski directly across the path of an Isle of Wight ferry, coming within meters of its bow.
The ferry’s master was forced to make take evasive action to avoid a potential collision. The dangerous maneuver was observed by officers from Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary. The case was subsequently handled by the MCA, which issued a caution to the jet skier on July 1, 2024, after admitting to the offense.
“The jet skier was very remorseful and appreciated that his actions had forced a ferry with many people on board to, essentially, slam on the brakes,” said MCA Departmental Inspector Lesley Hopker. “At a busy harbour, on the last day of Cowes Week, this could have had serious consequences. It’s a timely reminder that even small watercraft are now covered by maritime law and action will be taken against those breaking the rules.”
The jet skier admitted to breaching Rule 9 of the International Regulations for the Prevention of Collision at Sea (IRPCS), contrary to Section 4 of The Merchant Shipping (Distress Signals and Prevention of Collisions) Regulations 1996. The law, which has applied to jet skiers since March 31 of the previous year under the Merchant Shipping (Watercraft) Order 2023, allows for the prosecution of individuals who endanger others by operating powered watercraft in a dangerous manner.
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