Coast Guard Tows Disabled Fishing Boat To Safety

ATLANTIC CITY, NJ - Seven people aboard a disabled fishing boat 40 miles east of Atlantic City were rescued after the Coast Guard towed the boat to safety.

Watchstanders at Coast Guard Sector Delaware Bay were notified at about 10:30 p.m. that the 90-foot fishing vessel Margaret Rose was disabled from engine failure, according to a release from the Coast Guard's detachment in Atlantic City.

The Coast Guard diverted the crew of the cutter Dolphin - which is based in Hampton Roads, Virginia to assist.

The Coast Guard's Dolphin crew towed the stricken boat to Cape May, where the boat was anchored and waiting for commercial salvage.

“The captain of the fishing vessel notified the Coast Guard on his marine radio that they were in need of assistance,” said Chief Petty Officer Jacobe Hyre, the command duty officer. “We were able to get their exact location immediately and monitor their situation until help arrived because of their marine radio. It’s something we recommend every boat have because a routine trip on the water can change instantly.”

Photo: Courtesy of U.S. Coast Guard