A Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) report has revealed how a day trip to the Isle of Wight ended in tragedy when a rigid inflatable boat (RIB) crashed into a navigation beacon in Portsmouth Harbour at high speed, claiming the lives of 2 men.
The report details the circumstances surrounding the fatal allision involving the 8.2m RIB ‘Peaky Blinder’ on 14th August 2025.
The boat’s owner and 2 friends left Port Solent at around 12:30 and crossed the Solent to Priory Bay on the Isle of Wight, where they anchored, swam and ate lunch. During the passage and while at anchor, the group consumed around 10 cans of beer and cider between them.
They later travelled to Ryde, arriving at around 15:23, where they met another group at a local hotel. Each of the 3 men drank a further 3 pints of beer before departing at around 16:15.
After returning to Haslar Marina in Gosport, the group continued drinking at a floating restaurant and bar before setting off again shortly after 21:00.
As Peaky Blinder travelled north through Portsmouth Harbour at speeds approaching 50 knots, it left the marked navigation channel and struck navigation beacon 81.
The force of the impact threw all 3 occupants into the water. Despite a major emergency response, 2 of the men died, while the owner survived with minor injuries.
The MAIB found that excessive alcohol consumption, high speed and a failure to maintain a proper lookout were key factors in the accident. Investigators also noted that none of those on board were wearing personal flotation devices.
The report states that the boat was travelling at approximately 49 knots immediately before the collision, despite the harbour’s 10-knot speed limit.
Investigators found the owner had become significantly impaired after consuming alcohol throughout the day, affecting his judgement, reaction time and ability to safely operate the vessel.
The MAIB has made 3 recommendations aimed at improving safety for recreational boat users.
