/ 
The Ajaccio station?s marine rescue team faced a particularly challenging operation on June 23 and 24, 2026. Following a collision between two catamarans off the coast of Cargèse, several SNSM crews were mobilized to prevent the loss of one of the two vessels. The operation required pumping equipment, hoisting devices, and long hours of work in sweltering heat.
A collision causes a major leak
The alert was issued by CROSS in the late afternoon of June 23, 2026. The patrol boats SNS 7 007, SNS 150, and SNS 684 were dispatched to the accident site.
The two catamarans have sustained damage of varying severity. The Tanna 47, flying the Spanish flag, has a slight leak. The second sailboat, the Looping 50, is much more seriously damaged. A large gash on the starboard side is causing massive water ingress, which is rapidly threatening its buoyancy while three people are still on board.
The volunteers immediately set up several dewatering pumps. Despite the installation of three pumping systems, the inflow of water continues to exceed the drainage capacity.
A deliberate grounding to prevent a shipwreck
Faced with the risk of the catamaran sinking in the gulf, the rescuers decided to evacuate the occupants. The catamaran was then intentionally run aground in a shallow area off a beach. This maneuver stabilized the boat and prevented it from sinking completely.
The second catamaran, which remained seaworthy despite the damage it sustained, is being escorted to the port of Ajaccio by SNSM crews.
A particularly technical refloating operation
The very next morning, the patrol boats SNS 150 and SNS 684 returned to the scene to prepare for the salvage operation. The crews temporarily sealed the breach before setting up lifting bags. The three pumps were then reinstalled to continue draining the hull.
Early in the afternoon, their efforts finally paid off. The catamaran gradually regained its buoyancy and could be launched back into the water. It was then towed for several hours to Ajaccio, where the sailboat finally reached a safe harbor.
Attempts at looting during the night
The SNSM also reports that during the night preceding the salvage operations, the owner?who had remained aboard the stranded catamaran?faced several attempts at looting. These incidents serve as a reminder of the vulnerability of vessels involved in accidents when they remain immobilized near the shore while awaiting the arrival of rescue teams or experts.
An operation that showcases the expertise of volunteer first responders
This operation, which involved several patrol boats, pumping equipment, and lifting equipment, illustrates the wide range of missions carried out by SNSM volunteers.
In addition to rescuing people, the teams are regularly called upon to carry out technical operations aimed at preserving damaged vessels and minimizing the risk of marine pollution. Coordination between CROSS and the Ajaccio rescue teams made it possible to prevent the loss of this catamaran despite particularly severe damage.
