Video shows Coast Guard rescue crew from sinking sailboat off Cape Hatteras
The Coast Guard rescued three adults and a 15-year-old from a sinking sailboat Thursday off the coast of Cape Hatteras.
The crew of the 41-foot boat named “Rojodan” contacted authorities about 6 p.m. Wednesday reporting they lost use of both engines and jib about 98 miles offshore. Crews were unable to tow the boat because of the distance from shore and weather conditions, with wind gusts up to 45 mph and sea swells up to 8 feet, the Coast Guard said in a news release.
A Coast Guard helicopter crew from Elizabeth City responded and hoisted the four passengers to safety.
“These mariners were sailing prepared with a satellite phone which made way for a successful rescue,” Coast Guard command duty officer Stephen Sawyer said in the release. “Vessels that travel over 20 miles offshore should ensure they have an alternate method of communication equipment beyond a VHF radio, such as an HF radio or satellite phone.”
The sailboat crew was taken to Air Station Elizabeth City where they were given dry clothing and transportation to a local hotel. There were no injuries.
Kari Pugh, kari.pugh@virginiamedia.com
