2026 RORC Caribbean 600 - Catamaran capsize - six rescued

Cata Sensation - RORC Caribbean 600 Start and Day 1, Antigua 2026 © Tim Wright

At approximately 2130hrs, Cata Sensation, a TS42 catamaran participating in the RORC Caribbean 600 race, capsized about 16 nautical miles west of St. John’s Harbour with six people onboard.

The Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force Coast Guard was notified about 30mimutes later, and promptly deployed its quick response team and issued an Urgent Marine Information Broadcast (UMIB) to all vessels in the area requesting assistance.

Three competitors diverted to the rescue, and 25 minutes later it was confirmed that all individuals had been safely rescued from the water by the Class40 Solano. The rescued sailors only sustained minor abrasions, with no serious injuries or casualties reported. It is believed that the vessel capsized due to sudden gusts of wind reaching up to 40 knots.

Following the rescue, the ABDF Coast Guard continued to monitor Solano as it completed its race and provided a safe escort into Falmouth Harbour.

Cata Sensation remains capsized and partially submerged, drifting southwesterly.

Organisers thanked the crews of the MG5 Wellness Training and VO70 Cockatoo for their willingness to assist. The crews are being looked after ashore by RORC Race team and volunteers in Antigua.

The ABDF Coast Guard is actively tracking the vessel’s position and advises all mariners to exercise extreme caution while navigating in the vicinity.