U.S. Coast Guard East District Recognized for Supreme Maritime Rescue of Five Crew Members Off North Carolina Coast
The U.S. Coast Guard East District, which oversees the mid-Atlantic region, has been awarded the International Ocean Safety Award for a supreme maritime rescue. This recognition is for their successful rescue of five crew members from the 54-foot catamaran 'Magic Bus' on November 6, 2025. The incident occurred 260 nautical miles off Cape Hatteras, North Carolina, during a severe force 8-9 gale. The 'Magic Bus' was on an 1,100-mile migration voyage from Long Island Sound, Connecticut, to the Bahamas when it encountered critical issues, including a flooded engine compartment and a ripped-off saloon hatch, leading to water ingress from both above and below the waterline. The crew, despite being experienced, faced communication challenges, as their VHF radio lacked sufficient range and attempts to contact the Coast Guard via mobile phone and website were unsuccessful due to an automated system and a government shutdown. The owner of the 'Magic Bus' ultimately alerted the Coast Guard via 911.