US Coast Guard handles incident involving yacht run aground in Maryland

The Lovebug, a 104-foot yacht, ran aground about a half-mile offshore between Beverly Beach and Curtis Point, Maryland, on Saturday, prompting a rapid and coordinated response by the U.S. Coast Guard and partner agencies.

Authorities reported that the vessel, which capsized in the West River near Annapolis earlier that day, had other problems that led to its current situation. Despite the dramatic scenes, the five people on board were rescued unharmed by a Good Samaritan and a tugboat, highlighting the effectiveness of local mariners’ emergency preparedness.

The Coast Guard Sector Maryland – National Capital Region has deployed pollution response teams to closely monitor the situation. In addition, a salvage company has placed an oil boom around the vessel to prevent potential environmental damage. There have been no reports of pollution to date.

A 29-foot crew from a U.S. Coast Guard Response Boat-Small II in Annapolis provided critical search and rescue support and secured the accident site. Efforts are underway to develop a recovery plan for the stranded yacht, which fortunately did not block the shipping channel.

Earlier that same day, the Lovebug partially capsized at the mouth of the West River at around 12:30 p.m. Natural Resources Police were the first to respond to distress calls sent over VHF channel 16 and were surprised that such a large yacht was affected. All five people on board were safely evacuated to shore and did not require medical treatment.

Built by Italian shipbuilder Sanlorenzo in 2010 and modernized in 2017, Lovebug is known for its luxurious features, including zero-speed stabilizers, a flybridge sundeck with a hot tub, and a tender/jet ski garage. The vessel accommodates up to eleven guests in five cabins and can accommodate a crew of seven to eight. Its presence was noticed in Annapolis earlier in the week, attracting attention due to its size and elegance.

Local boaters, particularly those in Anne Arundel County who witnessed both incidents, have expressed concern and curiosity about the causes of these events. While investigations continue, the Coast Guard remains vigilant and ensures that no further risks arise from the current condition of the yacht.

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