Coast Guard rescues solo sailor 350 miles southeast of Boston

(Coast Guard photo)

Commander William Kelly (left) talks with Collin after his rescue.

By Globe Staff

Tossed on the waves 350 miles southeast of Boston, the sailor alone in the 29-foot boat made a desperate call for help. The Coast Guard raced to his rescue.

Early this morning, Canadian Jean Raymon Collin stepped aboard the cutter Tahoma and was swathed in blankets, safe at last.

The Tahoma made visual and radio contact Friday morning with Collin. But the weather was too rough for the crew to launch a small boat.

The cutter remained on the scene overnight, positioning itself to block the winds from the disabled vessel. The Tahoma was able to launch its boat this morning and rescued Collin, bringing him aboard at about 7 a.m.

The Tahoma is now on its way to Boston with Collin aboard. Commander William Kelly, commanding officer of the cutter, said Collin was happy and relieved to be off the boat and on his way back to loved ones for the holidays.

• Comment
• Permalink
• Email