CLEARWATER, FL – Two people were rescued early Wednesday morning after their 30-foot sailboat lost its mast and became disabled about 40 miles west of Tarpon Springs, according to the U.S. Coast Guard.
A Coast Guard Air Station Clearwater MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter crew located the stranded boaters shortly before 5 a.m. in rough seas of four to six feet and winds around 20 knots. The crew deployed a rescue swimmer and safely hoisted both individuals from the vessel. They were transported to Air Station Clearwater in stable condition.
The Coast Guard said a distress signal was received at 3:24 a.m., prompting the launch of the helicopter. Officials credited the emergency alert for providing critical information that enabled a rapid response.
“The distress alert was vital in providing us critical information to rapidly deploy a helicopter crew to assist,” said Petty Officer 2nd Class Jason Aybar, a search and rescue controller with the Coast Guard’s Southeast District. “Having reliable communication and safety equipment can make all the difference when seconds matter on the water.”
The sailboat’s owner is arranging recovery of the vessel through commercial salvage, and the cause of the de-masting remains under investigation.