An administrative law judge suspended the merchant mariner credential of the master of the ‘Portland Spirit Monday’, after an investigation by members of the US Coast Guard Marine Safety Unit Portland, regarding an incident that occurred on the Willamette River on October 29.
The USCG complaint stated the respondent was negligent while serving as master of the ‘Portland Spirit’ in that he failed to take positive action to avoid a collision with two recreational rowers.
The incident took place during the Portland Fall Classic event, in which rowing teams raced rowing shells on the Willamette River.
As per navigation rules, the master had the responsibility not only to avoid a collision, but also to change the course or speed of the ‘Portland Spirit’ in order to not impede the passage or safe passage of the rowers.
During the event, the Portland Spirit maneuvered through the race route and caused teams in two rowing shells to alter their course to avoid a collision with the Portland Spirit.
The US Coast Guard administrative law judge for this case, decided in favor of the allegations in the Coast Guard’s complaint against the captain of the ship and ordered the suspension of his credentials for three months.
The master of the vessel, as part of the proceedings, filed an uncontested answer to the court, admitting his actions of negligence in the matter.
“We are pleased with the judge’s decision. One of the Coast Guard’s primary missions is to ensure waterway safety; safe navigation and collision avoidance are primary concerns. All operators share the responsibility to prevent vessel collisions,” stated Capt. Tom Griffitts, commanding officer, Marine Safety Unit Portland.