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Fire Island Today
By the People, for the People
Coast Guard Rescues Four From Disabled Yacht in Long Island Sound
Dramatic helicopter operation saves sailors from 12-foot waves during severe storm.
Apr. 6, 2026 at 5:06pm
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A dramatic Coast Guard rescue operation saves four sailors from a disabled yacht battling treacherous conditions in Long Island Sound.Fire Island TodayThe U.S. Coast Guard rescued four people stranded on a disabled 42-foot yacht taking on water and battered by 12-foot waves in Long Island Sound on Saturday night. Local responders were unable to reach the scene, so a Coast Guard helicopter launched from Cape Cod arrived and hoisted the sailors to safety one-by-one using a rescue basket.
Why it matters
This dramatic rescue highlights the critical role the Coast Guard plays in saving lives during extreme weather events, especially in remote or treacherous maritime conditions where local resources are overwhelmed. It also underscores the dangers recreational boaters can face when venturing out in severe storms.
The details
The Proudfoot yacht issued a distress call around 5:45 p.m. on April 4 when it became disabled and started taking on water about three miles southwest of Moriches Inlet in Fire Island. Local first responders could not reach the scene due to the dangerous 12-foot waves, and even a Coast Guard ship had to turn back. But a Coast Guard helicopter arrived at 8:30 p.m. and rescued the four sailors - two men ages 55 and 30, and two women ages 45 and 40 - within 75 minutes using a one-by-one basket hoist. The Proudfoot was later found abandoned and washed ashore on Fire Island.
- The distress call came around 5:45 p.m. on April 4.
- The Coast Guard helicopter arrived on scene at 8:30 p.m. and completed the rescue within 75 minutes.
- The disabled Proudfoot yacht was found washed ashore on Fire Island the next morning on April 5.
The players
U.S. Coast Guard
The U.S. Coast Guard is the maritime security, search and rescue, and law enforcement branch of the U.S. Armed Forces.
Proudfoot
A 42-foot recreational yacht that became disabled and took on water during a severe storm in Long Island Sound.
What’s next
The Coast Guard is investigating the cause of the Proudfoot's mechanical failure and will work with the owner to coordinate the salvage of the abandoned yacht.
The takeaway
This rescue operation showcases the Coast Guard's expertise and preparedness in responding to maritime emergencies, even in the face of severe weather conditions that overwhelm local first responders. It serves as a reminder for recreational boaters to exercise caution and be prepared when venturing out on the water, especially during storm seasons.