Boat sinks near Frying Pan Tower

OAK ISLAND, NC (WWAY) — A 27-foot May-Craft boat called “Designated Diver” began sinking with six passengers on board near Frying Pan Tower Friday.

The captain of the boat, who does not want to reveal his name, says the boat was taking three volunteers and two crew members 35 miles out to sea to Frying Pan Tower. During the trip, the transom bracket on the back of the boat became separated, and the boat started taking on water. That’s when the captain immediately made a distress call to the Coast Guard.

Petty Officer Norris with the US Coast Guard Station Oak Island says a pump was dropped down to the vessel so the crew could pump water out of the boat.

The passengers safely made it off the boat and to the tower, where they are staying through the weekend. The Coast Guard transported the captain back to safety by helicopter.

The Coast Guard towed the Designated Diver to the Southport Marina. According to the captain, the boat is a total loss.

No one was injured during the incident.