MOBILE, Ala. — The U.S. Coast Guard ended its search for the 33-foot sailing vessel, Tortuga, which was reported overdue by Sea Tow late Friday. S/V Tortuga was transiting from Mobile Bay to Panama City, Fla. Coast Guard Station Dauphin Island was able to make contact with the vessel owner and he stated he had arrived safely in Panama City.
Coast Guard Sector Mobile launched an HC-144A Ocean Sentry aircraft and crew from the Aviation Training Center Mobile, Ala., after receiving a call Friday from Sea Tow reporting a mariner departed Mobile Bay and was scheduled to arrive in Panama City, Friday at noon. The mariner did not report his scheduled arrival to Sea Tow.
“Float plans are important because they let your family and friends know how long you are going to stay out on the water and where you plan on going. All mariners should file a float plan with friends or family before leaving port and let them know when you have arrived at your destination,” said Lt. Sue Kerver, Public Affairs Officer for the Eighth Coast Guard District. “Filing a float plan with friends or family, and reporting in to them when you arrive, lets everyone know you arrived safely. Float plans help the Coast Guard help you if you are ever in an emergency.”
For more information about Float Plans click here.
