OVERDUE FISHING VESSEL ‘FAITH P’
The Antigua Barbuda Defence Force (ABDF) Coast Guard is actively engaged with local and regional stakeholders to locate and rescue fishermen aboard Fishing Vessel (FV) ‘FAITH P’, which was expected in port on Thursday, 12th March 2026.
The Coast Guard received notice of the overdue vessel at approximately 5:40 pm Thursday, learning that three persons onboard (POB’s) went fishing 12.5 nautical miles (NM) south/south-west of Barbuda on the 11th March 2026 at 7:00 pm and hadn’t returned.
Up to press time, the Coast Guard has coordinated approximately 18hrs of search efforts conducted jointly by two aircrafts and five vessels over 1225NM of sea; however, regrettably FV FAITH P has not been found.
On the 14th March 2026, a local vessel actively engaged in search found what appeared to be a engine cover matching the description of FAITH P approximately 26NM SW of Palmetto Point Barbuda. Further unconfirmed reports indicate the discovery of a fishing cooler within the general search area.
The investigation into the whereabouts of FAITH P are ongoing, and thus its status remains uncertain.
An Urgent Marine Information Broadcast (UMIB) message continues its cyclical airing on VHF Channel 16, placing Mariners operating within the general search area on high alert: in hopes of the discovery of evidence leading to an informed conclusion.
The Coast Guard wishes to recognize the Search and Rescue (SAR) efforts offered thus far by the ABDF Air Wing, Maritime Rescue Coordination Center (MRCC) Fort-de-France in Martinique, Antigua and Barbuda Search and Rescue (ABSAR), Barbuda Fisheries, Montserrat Marine Police Unit, Calvin Air Helicopters, FV PACIFIC OCEAN, CASH MONEY III, Calypso Cat and members of the Urlings fishermen community.
Anyone with information that will assist in or lead to the successful rescue of FV ‘FAITH P’ is asked to contact the Coast Guard hotline @ 268-462-3206, 462-2841(2)(3) or the Operations Officer, Lieutenant (Junior Grade) Randolph Best @ 268-729-5802.
The ABDF reminds all members of the Maritime Public of the importance of engaging in best safety practices in adherence to the SOLAS convention and local maritime regulations.
We urge all users to operate their vessels with all life-saving appliances (LSA), distress and communication systems as required to protect and preserve lives at sea.
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Did I see that right??? 18 hours of searching??? When were these men declared missing??? Ah joke we a joke ’round ya!!