The Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force (ABDF) Coast Guard confirms to the general public the successful rescue of six individuals following a capsizing on the evening of 25th February 2026.

At approximately 10:02 pm, the ABDF Coast Guard received a Marine Report from Antigua and Barbuda Search and Rescue (ABSAR) disclosing that Cata Sensation, a participating vessel in the RORC Caribbean 600 race, had capsized approximately 16 nautical miles west of St. John’s Harbour with six persons onboard.

The ABDF Coast Guard immediately deployed its quick response team and issued an Urgent Marine Information Broadcast (UMIB) for all vessels in the vicinity to assist.

At 10:27 pm, further reports confirmed that all members had been safely recovered from the water by a fellow race participant, sailing yacht Solano. The rescued individuals sustained only minor abrasions, without major injuries or casualties reported. It is understood that the vessel experienced sudden gusts of winds of up to 40knots, leading to its loss of stability and subsequent capsizing.

Following these efforts, the ABDF Coast Guard maintained overwatch of Solano as she completed her race and provided a safe escort into Falmouth Harbour. Currently, Cata Sensation remains capsized and partially submerged, drifting southwesterly. The ABDF Coast Guard is actively monitoring the vessel’s position and advises all mariners to exercise extreme caution when navigating in the general area.

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