Six Rescued – Six people were safely rescued on Wednesday night after the vessel Cata Sensation capsized off the coast of Antigua during the RORC Caribbean 600 race.
Six Rescued After Yacht
The Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force (ABDF) Coast Guard confirmed that the incident occurred at approximately 10:02 pm when a marine report was received from Antigua and Barbuda Search and Rescue (ABSAR).
The report indicated that the vessel had capsized about 16 nautical miles west of St. John’s Harbour with the six persons on board.
The Coast Guard immediately activated its quick response team and issued an Urgent Marine Information Broadcast, calling on vessels in the vicinity to assist.
By 10:27 p.m., all the individuals had been safely recovered from the water by fellow race participant, the sailing yacht Solano. Officials reported that the rescued individuals sustained only minor abrasions, with no major injuries or casualties.
Preliminary information suggests the vessel encountered sudden gusts of wind reaching up to 40 knots, which resulted in a loss of stability and eventual capsizing.
Following the rescue, the Coast Guard maintained overwatch of Solano as it continued its race and provided a safe escort into Falmouth Harbour.
The ABDF Coast Guard said Cata Sensation remains capsized and partially submerged, drifting southwesterly, and is being actively monitored. Mariners are being advised to exercise extreme caution when navigating in the area.
The Coast Guard also commended the crew of Solano for their assistance and reaffirmed its commitment to maritime safety and the protection of all persons within Antigua and Barbuda’s waters.
