An update supports my theory based on the damage to the Vestas hull that they did not hit a fishing boat but snagged a piece of fishing gear attached to a boat as well as addressing the dangerous practice of racing in commercial traffic areas.
What were the conditions like? What could you see?
It was a dark and cloudy night, with a breeze of around 20 knots and a moderate sea state. As we approached the fishing vessel that we had identified on AIS, the on-deck crew confirmed visual contact – the fishing vessel was well lit – and we headed up to starboard to keep clear. I was watching AIS and communicating the range and bearing to the crew. The crew confirmed we were crossing the fishing vessel when, before the anticipated cross, there was an unexpected collision.