Coast Guard Rescues 4 From Sinking Sailboat 170 Miles Offshore Rhode Island

Four boaters were rescued Tuesday after their disabled sailboat began taking on water approximately 170 miles offshore Rhode Island.

The U.S. Coast Guard said watchstanders at the Coast Guard Sector Southeastern New England Command Center were contacted Tuesday morning by the crew of the 60-foot sailing vessel Scotch Mist reporting they were taking on water through a deteriorating shaft seal approximately 170 miles south of Block Island, R.I.

An HC-144 Ocean Sentry aircrew launched from Coast Guard Air Station Cape Cod to deliver a dewatering pump and assist with communications. Meanwhile, the Coast Guard Cutter William Chadwick was diverted to meet the Scotch Mist. The William Chadwick crew brought all four mariners on board.

The rescued boaters were treated on board for “signs of shock and hypothermia.” No injuries were reported.

“This case highlights the excellent coordination that occurs between the Coast Guard Command Centers, Air Stations and Surface Assets. Our separate crews did an amazing job of working as a unified team to deliver the best outcome possible,” said Lt. Cmdr. Brent Lane, commanding officer of the William Chadwick. “I could not be prouder of the crew of William Chadwick for their dedication and professionalism which ultimately resulted in four lives saved.”