The sailing community is mourning the loss of Dag Eresund, a 33-year-old Swedish sailor, who went overboard during the 2024 Atlantic Rally for Cruisers (ARC). The incident occurred aboard the Volvo 70 Ocean Breeze, approximately 1300 nautical miles east of Bermuda, in challenging conditions with winds of 20-30 knots.
The alarm was raised at 2:30 AM on December 2, triggering an extensive search led by the U.S. Maritime Rescue Coordination Center (MRCC) in Norfolk, Virginia. The search included the participation of nearby vessels, such as the Vismara 62 Leaps & Bounds 2 and the 88m superyacht Project X. Despite 19 hours of intensive effort, worsening weather and fading daylight forced authorities to halt the operation.
Eresund, who was wearing an automatic inflatable lifejacket with a personal AIS beacon, was part of the crew aboard Ocean Breeze, a high-performance Volvo 70 yacht with a storied racing history in the Volvo Ocean Race. The yacht, participating in the ARC’s IRC racing division, was equipped with the highest safety standards, as required by the World Sailing Offshore Special Regulations for Category 1 events.
The World Cruising Club, organizers of the ARC, expressed condolences to Eresund’s family and crew. They praised the skippers and crews of assisting vessels for their efforts during the search. The tragedy highlights the inherent risks of ocean racing and the importance of rigorous safety protocols.
As the ARC fleet continues its journey toward Saint Lucia, the loss of Dag Eresund serves as a solemn reminder of the ocean’s power and the challenges of offshore sailing.
