Autosun

Four people aboard a large sailboat were successfully rescued, after it began taking on water during a storm in the Bay of Biscay, by the 'Autosun', enroute from Bristol to Santander, the vessel's operator UECC reported on April 2, 2026. The catamaran yacht had issued a mayday call, reporting that it was encountering strong northerly winds and three to four meter swells. It worked in coordination with both the Spanish and French MRCC to ensure a coordinated response. Preparing for the rescue operation, the vehicles carrieractivated its man overboard (MOB) signal and general alarm to ensure the crew was ready for the operation. They determined to use the pilot door to bring the people aboard and rigged a pilot ladder for the recovery operation. After a course alteration, it reached the boat and maneuvered in a position to create a lee. They were able to reduce the motion on the boat and provide sheltered waters, enabling the car carrier’s crew to safely transfer the four people within minutes aboard the ship. The four castaways were provided a short medical assessment once aboard the 'Autosun'.  A French rescue helicopter was also dispatched. It airlifted the four from the car carrier and transported them to shore. Report with photos: https://www.bairdmaritime.com/amp/story/security/emergency-services/search-and-rescue/car-carrier-rescues-distressed-boaters-in-bay-of-biscay