On 7/26/2023, OP1 and three passengers were traveling north on V1, in the Atlantic, just south of Hen and Chickens Sanctuary Preservation Area (SPA). After reaching a suitable area, OP1/PAX 1 began releasing the anchor. After the anchor was released, two large waves crashed over the bow of V1, flooding the hull. PAX observed that there was approximately five (5) inches of water within the hull of the V1. The anchor was collected and stored. In an attempt to drain the water from V1, PAX  began operating the vessel southbound towards the location of the Marina. During operation, V1 began sinking as more water intruded over the bow. The majority of the personal belongings on V1 began sinking and drifting in the current. A good samaritan assisted the individuals on V1 until Coast Guard Islamorada (USCG) arrived. The four occupants on V1 were transferred to the (USCG) vessel. At approximately 1:47 p.m., Good Sam 2 arrived on scene. The four occupants were transferred over to Good Sam 2 vessel and were taken back to boat rentals. Towboat U.S was contacted to drain and transport V1 to the same location. At approximately 1:51 p.m., Towboat U.S arrived and began towing V1 to Boat Rentals. At approximately 2:00 p.m, I arrived on scene and began my boating accident investigation.
Atlantic
ISLAMORADA                    