Photo: Gunga Din at the start in Newport on June 21. / Photo: Daniel Forster

Distressed boat was assisted by Fellow Competitor Desna

Gunga Din, a Swedish Yachts 41 owned by Robert Fye and Paul Cunningham, with a total crew of seven, had to abandon ship 80 miles from Bermuda due to water ingress. All crew members were successfully transferred, unharmed, to Desna, a Tartan 37 owned by Adam Van Voorhis with seven also aboard. All 14 are now making their way towards Bermuda expected late tonight. It is unknown at this time what precisely caused the water ingress. 

Earlier today the crew of Alliance, who also abandoned ship on Sunday, arrived aboard Ceilidh at the Royal Bermuda Yacht Club to a warm welcome from family, friends, and fellow competitors on the docks. 

As part of entry requirements, boats are rigorously inspected and sailors attend thorough safety courses to prepare for the risk association with offshore sailing. While the loss of these boats is extremely unfortunate, the important outcome is that all sailors involved are safe. 

The crews of Alliance and Ceilidh arrive safely at the Royal Bermuda Yacht Club. / Photo: Daniel Forster 

Desta on its way to Bermuda earlier in the race / Photo: Daniel Forster