Another dead whale

[Broad Bill]

Originally Posted by CODCHALY

I was on two boats that hit Whales on way to TUNA Grounds. Both Hits removed Prop shafts, and in the darkest of night. One out of Belmar ( highly respected Charter Capt). Won't name Boat or Capt. Early 1990's.
Another, more recent, again, darkest of night. Same , Headed to TUNA Grounds
again, took whole prop shaft.
I am one lucky Person. Have any of You experienced how FAST a repair at Sea must be made, when taking on Water. Every Passenger, both Times became Crew !!!

Cod I can't even imagine losing the prop shaft or any other through hull fitting at night heading offshore. Experience must have been terrifying for you and everyone else on board, happy you got through it to tell your story.

To give context to your experiences, two whale strikes over how many years going offshore. And curious, since it was the darkest of nights you mentioned, how did the captain or crew know it was a whale strike as opposed to floating debris? Not questioning you, just curious how you knew in both instances it was a whale the vessel you were on hit.