To the OP sorry this happened. I’m with Boatty, have a diver check the props, or snorkel down and look for something wrapped around them. That is way cheaper than a
haul out.
Doing deliveries I have been through Sarasota many times. The
ICW is well marked in that area. I never use the Sarasota inlets on deliveries as they constantly shift. Safer to come in Venice or Longboat or if really rough enter Tampa Bay and circle back. If that is where he ran aground.
Most
delivery captains
research the hell out of inlets to avoid the bad ones. The few times I have run boats up private canals and unmarked channels, it was done at +/-1kt.
In the end, legally you own it. If it was a pro, you could file a claim and go after his
license (that is why we tend to be conservative). If you file a claim against him, or with your
insurance company, there is the issue of hiring an unlicensed person to operate you boat.
I hope your friendship survives what appears to be his error.