Mexican Navy Rescues American Sailor Adrift Off Cozumel

Cozumel, Quintana Roo — The Mexican Navy rescued an American sailor whose sailboat lost propulsion and was drifting about 70 nautical miles (129.64 km) east-southeast of Cozumel, officials said Saturday.

Personnel from the Cozumel Naval Sector, in coordination with the ocean patrol vessel ARM “Independencia” (PO-163), responded to a maritime emergency report about a 32-foot sailboat named “Breezy Lee” that had suffered propulsion and rigging failures, leaving it adrift in the Mexican Caribbean.

Upon arrival, the crew conducted a search and established communication with the lone sailor following international search and rescue protocols. They located the vessel and brought the sailor aboard the patrol boat, where he received initial medical attention. Officials reported he was in good health and out of danger.

After securing the sailor, the Navy towed the sailboat to Cozumel, applying safety measures throughout the journey. Upon arrival, the rescued individual was handed over to the appropriate authorities.

The Mexican Navy, acting as coast guard, urged anyone experiencing maritime emergencies to contact the Cozumel Naval Sector at 987 117 0392 or the Navy’s toll-free number 800 MARINA 1 (800 627 4621).