Vessel abandonment review reports

Following three competing teams abandoning their yachts during the 2024 Newport Bermuda Race or return delivery, the Bermuda Race Organizing Committee (BROC) partnered with US Sailing and the Cruising Club of America to conduct an in-depth safety review from the biennial event.

The goal of this effort was to gather facts, analyze the incidents, and make recommendations that will contribute to safer offshore racing for all sailors.

After interviews with rescued and rescuing crews, the BROC and US Sailing have compiled and released three detailed reports, one for each incident. These reports provide insights and lessons learned, reinforcing the importance of preparedness, training, and seamanship in offshore racing.

“We want to extend our sincere gratitude to all those who dedicated their time and expertise to reviewing these incidents in detail,” said Andrew Kallfelz, Race Chair for the 2024 and 2026 Newport Bermuda Races.

“The most important factor is that there was no loss of life or injury in any of these incidents. These reviews allow us to learn and apply takeaways that will not only improve our Race but also enhance safety for all offshore sailors.”

In addition to the release of these reports, BROC recently hosted a video seminar as part of the 2026 Race Prep Seminar Series, where an overview of the reports was presented alongside two other key areas of review: Structural Integrity & Inspections and Communications at Sea. The full reports on these additional topics will be made available in the coming weeks.

“We highly encourage all sailors, offshore race organizers, and offshore sailing educators to take the time to read these reports,” said Dick York, Safety at Sea Chair at US Sailing.

“The crews involved demonstrated that training and preparation work to preserve life and limb. Just as importantly, their experiences reinforce that fellow competitors are often the first and most critical rescue and support system in offshore sailing. These key takeaways should continue to shape best practices for safety in our sport.”

Review reports (Owner, boat name, boat type):
• Eric Irwin, Mary Martin – Alliance – J/122
• Robert Fye – Gunga Din – Sweden Yachts 41
• Carter Bacon – Solution – Neilson 50 Classic

Report index: https://www.ussailing.org/competition/offshore/safety-information/safety-reports/