The Autosun: Crew Feedback and Vessel Data

**Title: Autosun Vehicle Carrier Comes to the Rescue of Yacht Crew in the Bay of Biscay** On April 2, 2026, a dramatic rescue unfolded in the Bay of Biscay when the crew of the 'Autosun', a large vehicle carrier en route from Bristol to Santander, successfully saved four individuals from a distressed sailboat taking on water during a fierce storm. The vessel's operator, UECC, provided updates on the operation. The ordeal began when the struggling catamaran yacht issued a mayday call, alerting authorities to its perilous situation as it battled against strong northerly winds and intimidating swells ranging from three to four meters. Recognizing the urgency, both the Spanish and French Maritime Rescue Coordination Centres (MRCC) quickly mobilized to orchestrate a coordinated response. In preparation for the rescue mission, the crew aboard the Autosun activated the man overboard (MOB) signal and initiated the general alarm, ensuring that all hands were on deck to assist. The team determined that utilizing the pilot door would facilitate the safest transfer and rigged a pilot ladder to streamline the recovery efforts. With a strategic alteration of its course, the Autosun skillfully maneuvered into position to create a sheltered lee, effectively minimizing the motion on the affected boat. This allowed the professional crew to swiftly and safely transfer the four stranded individuals onto the vehicle carrier within mere minutes. Once safely aboard the Autosun, the rescued sailors underwent a brief medical assessment. In a show of continued commitment to their safety, a French rescue helicopter was dispatched to the scene, swiftly airlifting the quartet from the vehicle carrier and transporting them to the shore for further care. For more details and images of this commendable rescue operation, visit the full report here: [Baird Maritime](https://www.bairdmaritime.com/amp/story/security/emergency-services/search-and-rescue/car-carrier-rescues-distressed-boaters-in-bay-of-biscay).