M/Y Camarina Royale sinks 70 miles from Cuba, crew safe

Feb 1, 2016 by Dorie Cox

The captain and crew of M/Y Camarina Royale are safe after the 115-ft. Benetti sank 70 miles off Cuba last night (Jan. 31) on its way back to Ft. Lauderdale from the Virgin Islands.

According to Capt. Jason Halvorsen, the Camarina Royale caught fire in the early hours of Jan. 31. approximately 30 miles south of Great Inagua.

“The yacht was underway returning to Ft. Lauderdale after the winter season in the Virgin Islands with a crew of six onboard,” Halvorsen reported by email.

“The fire originated in the engine room as a result of an undetermined mechanical failure,” he said.

According to Halvorsen, the crew responded immediately by activating all fire suppression tools, techniques and systems available. “But eventually, the ship was overcome by flames and was lost,” Halvorsen said.

There were no reported injuries.

“We thank the captain and crew of the Clipper Venus which responded to the call for assistance and remained in the area until the United States Coast Guard arrived,” Halvorsen said.

The LPG tanker Clipper Venus, which is registered in Norway, is credited with rescuing the crew.

“We also thank the officers and crew of the USCG cutter Confidence for their quick response and assistance as well as the transport of the crew to a nearby port.”

The crew arrived safely in Ft. Lauderdale on (Feb.1). Everyone is safe and uninjured according to Captain Jason Halvorsen.