$1 Million Luxury Yacht Sinks Off Florida, 2 Rescued

The Atlantis, an 80-foot motor yacht, takes on water after reportedly striking an object in the water 3 miles off St. Augustine Beach, May 25, 2024. The two people aboard the yacht were rescued by partner agencies and a hazard to navigation broadcast was issued to alert mariners of the partially submerged vessel. (U.S. Coast Guard courtesy photo)

SAINT AUGUSTINE BEACH, Florida -  Two people were rescued before a million-dollar luxury yacht sank off the east coast of Florida on Saturday.

The U.S. Coast Guard  received a radio notification at 11:37 a.m from the operator of the Atlantis, an 80-foot motor yacht, stating their vessel struck an object in the water and was taking on water approximately 3 miles off of St. Augustine Beach, Florida.

A St. John’s County Fire and Rescue marine unit arrived on scene and retrieved both people from the yacht. 

The luxury yacht is an older model Sunseeker Predator 80, according to the luxury yacht manufacturer's website.

A used Sunseeker Predator 80 can sell for between $1 and $2.7 million, depending on the model year according to yachtword.com.

The owner of the vessel will arrange salvage and the cause of the incident is under investigation

“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to St. John’s County Fire and Rescue for their invaluable assistance during this case," said Senior Chief Petty Officer Ricardo Santacana, command duty officer, Sector Jacksonville. 

“With the weather improving and mariners heading out onto the water, it's imperative for everyone to verify the presence of all necessary safety equipment aboard their vessel. This ensures that responders, as demonstrated in this case, can swiftly locate you and render assistance when an emergency arises.”