safety steps

On 29th January 2024 at about 11:56pm, the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force (ABDF) Coast Guard received a report from Maritime Rescue Coordination Center (MRCC) Fort-De-France of a vessel that ran aground and was taking on water in Falmouth Harbour, with one person on board.

Upon receiving the report, the ABDF Coast Guard immediately deployed to render assistance. At the same time, an Urgent Marine Information Broadcast (UMIB) was aired on marine VHF Channel 16 for any vessels in the area to render assistance.

Further to the initial report, it was confirmed by MRCC Fort De France the grounded vessel was identified as S/V ARCH ANGELS.   The ABDF Coast Guard was also informed that the occupant of the vessel, a French national, was located on the rocks in the area.

Upon investigation, it was discovered that the grounded vessel was located just off Hudson Point (near Willoughby Bay). Due to deteriorating sea conditions and limited visibility, the  search was suspended  at 3:07 am, until sunrise.

At 7:00am, the ABDF Coast Guard returned to the scene at Willoughby Bay, to render assistance to the person in distress; however, in the process, ABDF Coast Guard also requested assistance from ABSAR to assist in the recovery effort.

ABSAR then transported the individual to Falmouth Harbour at approx.  1O:OO am, where he received medical attention for minor cuts and bruises to the hands and feet.  He was then transported to Coast Guard Base, Deep Water Harbour for further investigation.

The vessel remains partially submerged outside Hudson Point; mariners are advised to take necessary precautions when navigating in the area.

The ABDF Coast Guard reminds all mariners to navigate with caution when traversing through unfamiliar waters, and to pay attention to the prevailing weather conditions. Time of Press Release: 6pm GMT+0400