An 80 year-old yachtsman is unaccounted for after setting sail from Hobart last year.
Peter Baggenstos from Switzerland was last seen on December 1, when he departed on his 13 metre yacht ‘Lady Lay’ bound for New Zealand.
Mr Baggenstos’ family notified the Australian Maritime Safety Authority after the yacht’s AIS transponder stopped transmitting on December 5, around 140km off Tasmania’s east coast.
A large scale search operation in the Tasman Sea was unsuccessful. Neither Mr Baggenstos, nor the yacht, were located.
The Swiss national is described as a very experienced sailor and of good health. The yacht was fitted with safety equipment including life belts, a life raft, a GPS unit, an EPIRB and an AIS transponder.
Sergeant John Delpero of Tasmania Police Missing Persons Unit has serious concerns for Mr Baggenstos’ welfare.
“Tasmania Police has now assumed management of the investigation which to date has included enquiries with AMSA, interstate and overseas law enforcement agencies, and Mr Baggenstos’ family through Interpol,” Sgt Delpero said, “Enquiries are continuing.”
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at crimestopperstas.com.au
