In a remarkable display of teamwork and quick response, the Coast Guard and Virgin Islands Search and Rescue (VISAR) executed a successful operation to save three individuals from a catamaran in distress near the British Virgin Islands early Thursday morning 7 March.
The 33-foot catamaran, named the Quartz, found itself in peril after running aground on the treacherous rocks of Horseshoe Reef, about six nautical miles southeast of Anegada. The incident occurred in the early hours, with the vessel beginning to take on water rapidly after hitting the rocks.
The situation escalated around 4:25 a.m. when the occupants of the Quartz issued a Mayday distress call. At the same time, the vessel’s Emergency Positioning Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) transmitted a critical alert to watchstanders at Sector San Juan. This alert was a decisive factor in the swift response that followed, enabling the Coast Guard to mobilize resources quickly to the scene.
Responding to the emergency, the Coast Guard deployed a 33-foot Special Purpose Craft - Law Enforcement vessel from Boat Forces Unit St. Thomas and a MH-60T Jayhawk helicopter from Air Station Borinquen. Concurrently, VISAR dispatched one of its marine units to provide immediate assistance.
The rescue teams found the distressed sailors had abandoned the sinking Quartz for the relative safety of the catamaran’s dinghy. In a coordinated effort, the individuals were secured and transported to Tortola, fortunately without any serious injuries or medical emergencies.
Petty Officer 2nd Class Victor Rodriguez Laboy, who served as the operations unit controller for the incident, underscored the critical role of the Quartz's EPIRB in the operation's success. The beacon, registered with the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration, enabled a rapid and efficient rescue response. Laboy’s remarks highlight the invaluable importance of such safety measures in maritime navigation, potentially saving lives by ensuring quicker rescue operations.
The individuals rescued from this harrowing situation are currently being accommodated on Virgin Gorda as efforts continue to address the aftermath of the incident. A photograph capturing the moment, taken by Gilbo of Husky Salvage, has been circulating, serving as a stark reminder of the dangers at sea and the importance of preparedness and swift action in emergencies.
This incident not only highlights the dangers of maritime navigation in treacherous waters but also showcases the exemplary cooperation between the Coast Guard and VISAR, whose combined efforts led to the successful rescue of the Quartz's occupants. It's a testament to the community's resilience and readiness to respond to those in need, ensuring the safety of lives in the beautiful but sometimes perilous Caribbean Sea.