Calls for better training and licensing after a horrific boat crash in the Bay of Islands

A skipper is fighting for his life in hospital, after a boat plowed into a passenger ferry heading to Paihia from Russell on Thursday.

The Transport Accident Investigation Commission has launched an investigation into the collision - which caused the ferry to sink.

Merchant Service Guild vice president Iain MacLeod says it's long past time licenses were required for driving recreational boats.

He says they need to know to keep a good watch - because allegedly there was no one at the helm when the boat hit the ferry.