An unregistered 406 EPIRB signal alerted the Coast Guard Sector San Juan Command Center early Friday morning.
A tanker transporting refrigerated fruit juices diverted to the area, and its crew found the yacht engulfed in flames and rapidly sinking.
Acting quickly, the tanker’s crew launched their rescue boat and safely brought the crewman aboard.
Fortunately, he was unharmed in the ordeal.
Coast Guard officials credited the 406 EPIRB signal for alerting rescuers to the yacht’s location and praised the crew for their decisive actions.
They also discussed the importance of carrying proper emergency equipment like EPIRBs when sailing.
The AMVER program, created in 1958, is essential for global maritime safety. Sponsored by the U.S. Coast Guard, the program allows participating vessels to assist in emergencies.
Commercial ships over 1,000 gross tons on voyages longer than 24 hours are encouraged to enrol, but private yachts and research vessels can also participate.
The juice transport vessel’s swift response is a testament to the importance of the AMVER network in saving lives at sea.
Read more here:
https://www.marineinsight.com/shipping-news/juice-tanker-crew-saves-boater-from-burning-yacht-sinking-in-atlantic-ocean/