Trans-Atlantic racer in raft signals with flares after yacht fire

22/11/2022

A French sailor who abandoned a burning boat for a rescue raft during a trans-Atlantic race has been saved after using flares.

French solo yachtsman Fabrice Amedeo abandoned his boat Art & Fentres during the single-handed Route du Rhum race off Portugal after the ballast was hit by a wave and exploded.

The yacht’s electrical equipment was soaked, wiping out the autopilot, computer and electronics. In consultation with his team, he proceeded cautiously toward Cascais.

Later, smoke filled the boat, but the problem was resolved. He resumed the journey to Cascais and dried out the boat. But again, there was smoke on board, followed by an explosion.

Escaping the smoke and flames, Fabrice Amedeo evacuated into his escape raft. He watched his boat sink.

He had a VHF radio and made a Mayday call when possible, getting the message that a cargo ship was six miles away.

Fabrice Amedeo says, “I’m reassured but don’t see how I’m going to board such a giant with this sea. I’m in constant contact on the VHF with the captain who can’t see me. The sea is big, and the sun is on the water, and I’m a tiny orange dot.

“I launch a distress flare. He sees me, he loses me. I hit a second one. He sees me and arrives in the area.”

He is rescued and says, “This adventure in no way alters my passion for my job and for the ocean,” and adds, “I will be back!”