Ten rescued after sailing lesson ends in disaster near Avalon
- Ten people, including eight teenagers and two instructors, were rescued after their sailboat lost engine power and crashed into rocks on the Jersey shore.
- The group was compelled to abandon the vessel and entered the ocean as it began to sink.
- The successful rescue was led by over 40 lifeguards, marking a remarkable emergency response to a challenging situation.
On July 23, 2025, a sailing lesson went awry off the coast of Avalon, New Jersey. A group of ten individuals, consisting of eight teenagers and two sailing instructors, found themselves in a perilous situation when their sailboat, 'What Exit', experienced engine failure. As dangerous weather conditions worsened, the boat drifted onto a jetty, forcing the occupants to don life jackets and jump into the ocean for safety. The incident transpired around 11 a.m. and prompted an immediate response from lifeguards and bystanders, who quickly mobilized to assist with the rescue. The Avalon Beach Patrol was pivotal in the rescue operation, with approximately 40 lifeguards and multiple agencies contributing to bringing everyone safely back to shore. Chief Matt Wolf of the Avalon Beach Patrol described the rescue as the most challenging he has witnessed in nearly three decades of service. The response included various rescue assets like ski boats, lifeboats, and paddleboards, highlighting the collaborative effort in a high-stakes situation. Despite the boat ultimately being damaged in the incident, none of the individuals onboard were harmed. Avalon Yacht Club's General Manager Joe Mendez emphasized the importance of prioritizing people over property, stating that while the boat did not survive, the safety of the students and instructors was everyone's main concern. After the incident, the Avalon Yacht Club expressed their intention to review protocols and safety measures to prevent future occurrences like this. The conditions at Townsends Inlet, known to be one of the most treacherous areas of water on the East Coast, likely exacerbated the risk faced by the group. Avalon Beach Patrol has urged caution in these waters, and this incident serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictability of nature and the importance of safety measures when engaging in maritime activities.