Investigation reveals crew saw unusual approach before Black Cat struck Akaroa rocks
An investigation into the grounding of a tourist boat carrying 41 people in Akaroa Harbour in January has found the crew noticed an unusual approach moments before impact and were unable to operate…
A transport accident investigation has released findings about the Black Cat catamaran's grounding in Akaroa Harbour. A crew member spotted the vessel approaching Archway Rock from an unusual direction, followed by a bump and scraping sound. The crew were unable to operate the bilge pump as the boat flooded, and passengers had to be ferried to safety before the boat sank.
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Stuff
Crew spotted something ‘unusual’ moments before tourist boat carrying 41 struck rock
A crew member noticed the Black Cat was approaching Archway Rock from an “unusual direction”. Moments later came a bump and scraping sound — then the bilge alarm went off.
1News
Crew couldn't work pump on grounded Akaroa tour boat with 41 aboard
Dozens of passengers were ferried off the 17m catamaran before it sunk in Akaroa Harbour in January.
RNZ
Black Cat crew 'not confident' to operate pump, as tourist boat floods
The Transport Accident Investigation Commission has released new details about the incident off Akaroa in January.
Otago Daily Times
Investigation into Black Cat grounding released; crew 'not confident' operating pump
NZ Herald
Black Cat grounding: Crew member noticed an ‘unusual’ route before hitting rocks
An interim report details the Black Cat's route in Akaroa Harbour and beyond.