MIAMI BEACH, Fla. — A luxury yacht cruise turned into a dramatic rescue operation on Saturday, May 3, 2025, when the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) saved 32 people from a sinking Lamborghini yacht near Star Island. The incident unfolded around 5 p.m. as the 63-foot vessel, identified as a Tecnomar for Lamborghini, began taking on water and partially submerged.
The yacht, valued at over $4 million, was reportedly overloaded with passengers, including a group of influencers who were enjoying a day at sea. Witness Rachael Miller described the chaotic scene, stating, "We saw a bunch of cops, police boats, and there was another yacht that was flipped over completely vertical in the water." Videos of the incident quickly circulated on social media, capturing the astonishment of onlookers.
Upon receiving the emergency distress call, the Miami Beach Police Department and the USCG responded swiftly, with multiple agencies, including the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, assisting in the rescue. The Coast Guard confirmed that all 32 individuals aboard were successfully evacuated and brought to safety at the Miami Beach Marina, with no injuries reported.
The yacht began to capsize near Monument Island, an area popular with tourists. Eyewitnesses noted that the vessel was listing on its starboard side and eventually capsized stern-first, flooding the aft section, which is typically occupied by a daybed. The Coast Guard later stated that commercial salvage crews were attempting to recover the yacht, which was not considered a hazard to navigation.
This incident has raised questions about the yacht's seaworthiness, as it was designed for a limited number of passengers. According to reports, the luxurious Tecnomar Lamborghini 63 is known for its sleek design and high speed, capable of reaching up to 60 knots. It is a crossover between the luxury sportscar brand and marine engineering, featuring carbon-fiber detailing and sporty seating.
In the aftermath of the rescue, some passengers were seen laughing and dancing on rescue boats, seemingly unfazed by the ordeal. Former Miss America contestant Regan Hartley was notably photographed clutching a bottle of expensive tequila during the evacuation, highlighting the surreal nature of the situation.
As the incident unfolded, the Coast Guard shared images on social media showing the yacht partially submerged with passengers wearing life jackets. The response from both the Coast Guard and local marine units was praised for its efficiency, with officials commending the good Samaritan boat operators who also rendered assistance.
The investigation into the cause of the sinking is being led by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. While the exact reason for the yacht's distress remains unclear, the event has sparked significant media attention, with many questioning how a vessel of such luxury could face such a perilous situation.
The Tecnomar Lamborghini yacht, delivered in 2023, has gained notoriety not only for its price tag but also for its celebrity owners, including UFC fighter Conor McGregor. As the story develops, many are left wondering about the safety protocols for luxury vessels and the responsibilities of those who operate them.
This incident serves as a reminder of the potential dangers associated with recreational boating, particularly when safety regulations are not strictly adhered to. The USCG has emphasized the importance of ensuring that vessels are not overloaded and that all safety measures are in place before embarking on sea voyages.
As the sun set over Miami Beach that Saturday evening, the luxury yacht that was once a symbol of opulence became a focal point for discussions about safety at sea. With the investigation ongoing, it remains to be seen what conclusions will be drawn regarding the circumstances that led to this extraordinary rescue.
For those involved, the experience was undoubtedly one for the books, blending the thrill of luxury with the stark reality of maritime safety. As more details emerge, the community will be watching closely, eager to learn how such a high-profile incident unfolded in their waters.