October 07, 2023 (Saturday)

On this date, the Atlantic City Station received a call from the United States Coast Guard Sector Delaware Bay in reference to a vessel that was experiencing mechanical problems in Great Bay, Little Egg Harbor, NJ. Shortly after the initial report the Coast Guard advised the vessel had capsized in the area of Seven Islands and all three persons on board were in the water. 

While units were en route to this location a Coast Guard Helicopter that had been conducting training in the area responded to the scene. The Coast Guard deployed a rescue swimmer and all three victims were removed from the water safely and flown to Air Station Atlantic City. Upon arrival at the scene the vessel was observed capsized in the area of Seven Islands, Great Bay. The operator had deployed the anchor prior to the vessel capsizing and the vessel was stationary. The operator was contacted at a later time in regard to the incident.

Operator 1 stated in effect- The conditions became very rough and my engine cut out and I couldn't get it restarted. I quickly threw out the anchor and attempted to fix the engine. As we were anchored, waves began breaking over the bow of the boat and the boat began taking on water. My grandson was in the stern bailing out water, but couldn't keep up with the waves. The boat began to list and rolled over shortly after. I told the kids to jump into the water and was rescued by the Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer.

Investigation Revealed- Vessel 1 was traveling Westbound in the Great Bay near Seven Islands in Little Egg Harbor, NJ. Vessell lost power and Operator 1 deployed the anchor to await commercial assistance. The severe wave action in the bay due to a strong storm front moving through the area began swamping the deck of Vessel 1. The electronics reportedly failed shortly after and the bilge pump became inoperable. Vessel 1 began taking on water faster than the occupants could bail water. Vessel 1 subsequently capsized and all persons went into the water. A Coast Guard Rescue Helicopter was conducting training in the area and responded to the scene. All occupants were subsequently removed from the water by a rescue swimmer and transported to Air Station Atlantic City. There were no injuries reported. The vessel was left at the scene to be removed when conditions permit.

GREAT BAY
LITTLE EGG HARBOR TWP         