Discover the Krilo-Eclipse: Ratings & Maritime News

The Split Public Prosecutor's Office (ŽDO) has identified the first officer of a catamaran as a suspect in a tragic maritime accident that occurred on June 14, where a yacht collided with the vessel. Allegations indicate that the officer operated the catamaran without activating crucial radar monitoring and alarm systems, along with neglecting proper safety practices. This oversight reportedly led to a failure in spotting a sailboat carrying seven Czech passengers and their 65-year-old skipper, which was approaching from the starboard side. Additional details suggest the catamaran was exceeding safe speed limits at the time of the incident. As a result, the first officer faces a potential prison sentence ranging from three to 15 years if convicted. However, his defense lawyer emphasizes that no formal charges have been lodged against him for any misdemeanors or felonies. The officer asserts his innocence, insisting he did not instigate the accident and that there is insufficient evidence to link his actions to the tragic event. He has been in pretrial detention since June 18, awaiting further legal developments.

On June 17, 2023, the 1st officer of the catamaran ferry 'Krilo Eclipse' was apprehended amid ongoing investigations into a deadly collision in Splitska Vrata, the narrow passage separating the islands of Šolta and Brač. The 33-year-old officer is under suspicion for committing a serious violation against maritime traffic safety, as authorities look into whether he failed to take preventative measures despite having a clear view of the sailing vessel involved in the crash. Prosecutors are examining potential breaches of safety regulations that may have contributed to the tragic incident, which resulted in the loss of four lives. Crucial questions are being raised regarding the navigational decisions made prior to the accident, especially considering reports that the captain was absent from the bridge at the time of the collision, placing more accountability on the 1st officer responsible for steering the vessel. If found guilty, the officer could face a prison sentence ranging from three to 15 years. The investigation is also delving into whether any other crew members may share in the accountability for this maritime accident. Among the victims are Jiřina and Petr, a married couple from Bolatice in the Opava region of the Czech Republic, who leave behind two daughters and grandchildren. Further complicating the case, the skipper of the sailboat involved in the collision has reportedly left Croatia after the incident. In efforts to piece together the events leading to this tragedy, plans are underway to raise the sunken yacht and retrieve additional debris from the seabed as part of the investigation. The repercussions of this incident continue to unfold, raising crucial discussions about maritime safety and accountability.

On June 14th at 11:38 a.m., a tragic incident occurred when the 'Krilo Eclipse,' operated by Kapetan Luka Krilo company, collided with a French charter vessel in the Split Strait, situated between the islands of Šolta and Brač. In the aftermath, rescuers successfully recovered the bodies of all four victims, while the four survivors were taken to Split KBC and are reported to be in stable condition. Authorities are actively gathering evidence as they prepare for the challenging task of salvaging the sunken charter boat from the seabed. The investigation is comprehensive, involving multiple agencies, including local police, the state attorney's office, and the Agency for the Investigation of Accidents in Air, Maritime, and Railway Transport. Given that some victims were Czech citizens, Czech investigators may also participate in the inquiry. The Kapetan Luka Krilo company has expressed heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of the deceased, stating that the management and employees are deeply affected by the tragedy. They have been fully cooperating with relevant authorities from the outset to ensure a thorough investigation of the circumstances surrounding the accident. While the company is focused on supporting the crew of the catamaran and all those impacted, they emphasized that they cannot provide further details regarding the incident or potential causes until the investigation is concluded. Once more information becomes available, they are committed to sharing it with the public.