Boat operator had been drinking

A boat operator was fined $1,000 yesterday after pleading guilty to being impaired while in charge of a vessel containing tourists.

Magistrates Court heard how Robert Zuill, 55, from Paget, had taken a group of 12 tourists on his boat from Albuoys Point on June 4.

Very soon after they left dock, a complaint was made to the Police, and Harbour Radio ordered the boat return to Hamilton.

Zuill was arrested and charged with being impaired while piloting a boat.

His defence attorney Kim Wilson, in mitigation, said Zuill was very apologetic.

She said her client had been involved in a regatta leading up to the boat excursion, and he had come first place in a contest. As a result, she said, he had consumed some Rum Swizzle, which accounted for his impaired state.

Acting Senior Magistrate Mr. Greaves fined Zuill $1,000, to be paid yesterday, and said if he failed to pay on time he would face 90 days in jail.