American Carter Bacon has been awarded the Rod Stephens Seamanship Trophy for his actions during the 2024 Newport Bermuda Race.

The award, given by the Cruising Club of America, is given annually to a sailor “for an act of seamanship which significantly contributes to the safety of a yacht, or one or more individuals at sea.”

Bacon, from Cambridge, Massachusetts, was honoured for his meritorious handling of the sinking of his classic 50-foot K. Aage Nielsen sloop Solution during the return sail after the race.

Forced to abandon his 60-year-old yacht after 24 years and numerous voyages, including several races to Bermuda and a transatlantic crossing, Bacon was praised for a “difficult decision to make and comparable to losing a family member”, by the Cruising Club of America.

“Bacon put his crew’s safety first and foremost, which he is quick to say was an easy decision for him,” the award citation read.

“For what is all too often a dangerous and chaotic event, in a carefully orchestrated manner and with expert support from the US Coast Guard, Bacon and his crew abandoned Solution 200 miles off Cape Cod, bringing everyone home safely.”