The 106-foot megayacht Serena III, bound from Port Everglades to the Bahamas, sank yesterday. The USCG responded quickly and rescued the 13 individuals aboard, including Brazilian owner Richard Paul Matheson. The cause of the sinking was unknown, but speculation is that the boat had struck bottom or a submerged object earlier.
The megayacht was only four years old.
Here’s the USCG press release:
MIAMI — The crew of the Coast Guard Cutter Margaret Norvell rescued 13 people from their vessel that was taking on water off Lauderdale by the Sea, Florida, Monday night.
Rescued were six passengers, six crew and the captain of the 106-foot motor yacht Serena III.
Coast Guard Sector Miami watchstanders received notification at approximately 6:30 p.m. via VHF-FM radio that the Serena III was taking on water.
Watchstanders quickly launched a Coast Guard Air Station Miami MH-65 Dolphin rescue helicopter crew, a Coast Guard Station Fort Lauderdale boatcrew and the Coast Guard Cutter Margaret Norvell. Upon arriving on scene, the Margaret Norvell was able to safely launch their smallboat crew who embarked all 13 people. The Serena III completely sank approximately 25 minutes later.
All 13 people were taken aboard the Margaret Norvell and brought back to Coast Guard Base Miami Beach.
No medical concerns were reported.
