Camp Blizard, St. George's – The Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force (ABDF) Coast Guard continues to search for three fishermen aboard the overdue vessel 'Faith P', with possible debris from the boat discovered in waters southwest of Barbuda.

The Coast Guard received notice of the overdue vessel at approximately 5:40 pm on Thursday, 12th March 2026, after three persons aboard departed on a fishing trip at 7:00 pm the previous evening, heading to waters approximately 12.5 nautical miles south/south-west of Barbuda. They did not return as expected.

As of the morning of 15th March 2026, search teams have logged approximately 18 hours of coordinated efforts involving two aircraft and five vessels, covering 1,225 nautical miles of sea. The vessel has not been found.

On 14th March, a vessel actively participating in the search recovered what appeared to be an engine cover matching the description of 'Faith P', found approximately 26 nautical miles southwest of Palmetto Point, Barbuda. Further unconfirmed reports indicate that a fishing cooler was also discovered within the general search area. The status of the vessel remains uncertain as investigations continue.

An Urgent Marine Information Broadcast continues to air cyclically on VHF Channel 16, alerting mariners operating in the search area to remain vigilant for any evidence that could assist the operation.

The ABDF Coast Guard acknowledged the contributions of multiple agencies and organisations supporting the search and rescue effort, including the ABDF Air Wing, the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) Fort-de-France in Martinique, Antigua and Barbuda Search and Rescue (ABSAR), Barbuda Fisheries, the Montserrat Marine Police Unit, Calvin Air Helicopters, fishing vessels FV Pacific Ocean, Cash Money III, and Calypso Cat, as well as members of the Urlings fishermen community.

Anyone with information that could assist in locating 'Faith P' or its crew is urged to contact the Coast Guard hotline at 268-462-3206 or 462-2841/2/3, or Operations Officer Lieutenant (Junior Grade) Randolph Best at 268-729-5802.

The ABDF used the occasion to remind the maritime public of the importance of following best safety practices in accordance with the SOLAS convention and local maritime regulations, urging all vessel operators to carry required life-saving appliances, distress signals, and communication systems at all times.