- The 80-foot boat worth $1 million sank after hitting an unknown object in the water.
- The Coast Guard and local authorities rescued both people aboard the ship.
- One of the passengers suffered minor injuries and was taken to hospital.
Two people were rescued Saturday from an 80-foot yacht that sank three miles off the coast of St. Augustine Beach in Jacksonville, Florida.
The person driving the million-dollar boat told the Coast Guard over the radio that his boat “hit an object in the water and was taking on water,” according to a report. Press release.
The emergency radio notification was made at 11:37 am. The Coast Guard coordinated with county authorities and “nearby Good Samaritans” to assist in the rescue.
A St. John’s County Fire and Rescue marine unit reached the sinking ship first and pulled both people out safely. One of the boat’s passengers suffered minor injuries and was taken to a hospital. International Ship reported.
“We extend our sincere thanks to St. John’s County Fire and Rescue for their invaluable assistance during this case,” said Chief Petty Officer Ricardo Santacana, Coast Guard Sector Jacksonville command duty officer.
The yacht is seen leaning to starboard or to the right. Rescue boats surround million-dollar ship
Santacana continued: ‘With the weather improving and sailors taking to the water, it is imperative that everyone verify the presence of all necessary safety equipment aboard their vessel.
“This ensures that first responders, as demonstrated in this case, can quickly locate you and provide assistance when an emergency arises.”
Additional photos from rescue teams show that the boat took on water and eventually went upright before sliding underwater.
The ship that sank is called ‘Atlantis’ and has a top speed of 45 knots, or about 51 miles per hour.
The ship is about to go upright moments before completely sinking off the coast of St. Augustine Beach.
The yacht has clear signs of damage as it is about to capsize. The cause of the sinking is still being investigated and the owner will have to organize salvage plans for the wreckage.
It is not clear what “object” hit the yacht, but there is at least seven reefs off the coast from St. Augustine Beach, where the ship ultimately sank.
The owner of the capsized boat will be responsible for rescuing it while authorities investigate the cause of the accident.
DailyMail.com has contacted the Coast Guard and St. John’s County Fire and Rescue for comment.
