A sailing catamaran partly sank on the night of Oct. 21 after reportedly breaking loose from its mooring ball with seven people aboard and drifting into rocks at Seal Dog Island, officials said.
The passengers were rescued without injury in a prompt response by Virgin Islands Search and Rescue following the incident, which occurred around 11 p.m. between Seal Dog and Long Bay, Virgin Gorda, according to a Friday press release from the Marine Safety Investigation and Reporting Authority in the Premier’s Office.
Meanwhile, the Borrowed Bounty, a 48-foot Bali 4.8 sailboat, was recovered by Husky Salvage & Towing.
“Investigations are ongoing regarding the circumstances surrounding the incident,” said Chief Marine Safety Investigations Officer Jerome Padmore. “The use and condition of mooring balls is becoming a significant safety concern in Virgin Islands waters, leading to vessel losses and severe damage. Increased public awareness and attention from operators and facility managers are needed.”
In response to such incidents, the MSIRA will conduct a full investigation to identify issues and improve safety standards for mooring systems across the territory, Mr. Padmore said.
He also promised to provide updates as the investigation progresses, and he reminded the community that all marine accidents must be reported to MSIRA as required by law.
