Project X Crew Assist in Search Efforts for Missing ARC Sailor

A search operation was launched on Monday after ARC sailor Dag Eresund was lost overboard during this year's transatlantic rally. The incident prompted an immediate response from vessels in the area, including the 88-meter superyacht Project X, which was making its crossing to the Caribbean. 

The incident occurred on Monday, December 2, at 02:27 UTC, when the Volvo 70 Ocean Breeze reported a sailor overboard approximately 130 nautical miles east of Bermuda.

“At 03:30 UTC, we received a direct Instagram message from a skipper friend of our 2nd Officer, who was also participating in the ARC on another boat," Captain Nikolaos Leontitsis of Project X said. "He informed us about a man overboard, relaying details shared in the official ARC WhatsApp group. Just two minutes later, we received the same alert via a distress EGC message from MRCC Norfolk through the satellite INM-C system." 

The 88-meter superyacht and its crew, located 95 nautical miles away, altered course to join the search efforts. "Our decision to help was instinctive" Captain Nikolaos added.

“As we approached the search area with the first daylight, we activated our emergency protocols and completed all the relevant checklists. Eight lookouts were mobilized, with nearly all crew on deck to ensure maximum visibility," Captain Nikolaos explained. "We developed a specific plan and prepared the necessary equipment to safely retrieve a person from the water under challenging conditions, accounting for the possibility that the individual might be too exhausted to assist in their own rescue."

The search operation, coordinated by MRCC Norfolk, USA, involved the vessels Ocean Breeze, the Vismara 62 Leaps & Bounds 2, and Project X. Conditions were challenging, with winds reaching 25 knots, gusting up to 30, and waves between 2.5 and 4.5 meters. Due to the remote location, air support was unavailable, leaving the operation reliant on nearby vessels. 

"Initially, we were tasked with searching an area of 20.25 square nautical miles. After reassessing the local conditions, we proposed expanding the search westward, which was agreed upon after consultation with Ocean Breeze. Together with Leaps & Bounds II, which joined later, we expanded the search to approximately 100 square nautical miles, ensuring many areas were double-checked.”

Project X used tools such as a FLIR HD imaging camera to scan the surface and monitored AIS for signals from the missing sailor’s personal locator device. “We maintained constant communication with Ocean Breeze via VHF, sharing updates and ensuring all search areas were covered thoroughly,” Captain Nikolaos said. “Both skippers exhibited exceptional professionalism, and the crew of Ocean Breeze showed remarkable composure and tireless dedication to their crewmember.”

The search operation lasted 19 hours and was eventually called off due to worsening conditions. Despite the official conclusion, the crew of Project X continued their efforts. “After receiving the official email from RCC Norfolk declaring the end of the search operation, the spirit on the bridge remained resolute,” Captain Nikolaos recalled. “Our Chief Officer remarked, ‘Sometimes the last cast is lucky,’ as we continued searching further west while departing the designated area, using low light and night vision cameras.”

Despite the exhaustive efforts of all involved, ARC organizers World Cruising Club later confirmed the loss of 33-year-old Swedish sailor Dag Eresund, expressing their gratitude to all those who assisted in the search.

Reflecting on the mission, Captain Nikolaos expressed pride in the crew’s actions. “Although the outcome was heartbreaking, we take solace in knowing we did everything possible to assist. The crew’s unwavering commitment and courage during this mission exemplify the exceptional character of those aboard Project X." He also stressed the importance of collaboration and solidarity during maritime incidents, noting the coordinated efforts of the three yachts.