Six people were rescued on the night of 25 February after their vessel capsized during the RORC Caribbean 600, Antiguan authorities confirmed yesterday.

The Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force Coast Guard said it received a marine report at approximately 10:02 pm from Antigua and Barbuda Search and Rescue indicating that Cata Sensation, a participating vessel in the race, had capsized about 16 nautical miles west of St John’s Harbour with six people onboard.

The Coast Guard deployed a quick response team and issued an Urgent Marine Information Broadcast for vessels in the area to assist.

At 10:27 pm, officials received confirmation that all six individuals had been safely recovered from the water by fellow race participant Solano. 

The rescued crew members sustained minor abrasions, with no major injuries or fatalities reported.

Authorities said the vessel is understood to have encountered sudden gusts of wind of up to 40 knots, resulting in a loss of stability and the subsequent capsizing.

Following the rescue, the Coast Guard maintained overwatch of Solano as it completed the race and provided a safe escort into Falmouth Harbour.

Cata Sensation remains capsized and partially submerged, drifting south-westerly. The Coast Guard said it is actively monitoring the vessel’s position and has advised mariners to exercise extreme caution when navigating in the area.

The Coast Guard commended the camaraderie displayed by Solano and reaffirmed its commitment to maritime safety and the protection of all persons within the sovereign waters of Antigua and Barbuda.