Tragedy at Holland Regatta

Coach boat found un-manned

During the Holland Regatta a German coach boat was found unoccupied. One of the boats of the organising committee reported a vessel taking an unusual course around 1.30pm. Under investigation of the first rescue boat on site, the vessel was found to be empty and emergency procedures were implemented immediately.

The credentials of the missing coach are known to the organisation. This coach is not employed by the German Sailing Federation.

The rescue boat on site immediately notified the Dutch Coast Guard in Den Helder which put a search operation in place. Also the Holland Regatta organisation has ordered that all available rigid inflatable boats were to support the rescue operation which is being coordinated by the Coast Guard.

At the moment of the incident the wind was blowing 7 to 8 knots. There were hardly any waves and visibility was low.

The Holland Regatta Organisation decided not to have a General Recall of the boats, which were sailing at five different course areas at the time of the incident. Reason behind this is to have as many ships on the water to increase the chance of finding the missing person.

At this moment, the search operation by the Dutch Coast Guard was abandoned around 4.30pm. Dutch Water Police will continue searching underwater whereas Dutch Police will keep searching on the water.