An extensive search is currently underway to locate a missing elderly yachtsman who set sail from Hobart last month.
80-year-old Swiss man Peter Baggenstos was reported missing after he left Hobart on December 1, bound for New Zealand.
Police say the last transmission received from Baggenstos 13-meter vessel “Lady Lay” was on December 5 – approximately 140kms off the east coast of Tasmania during poor weather conditions.
Despite extensive large scale search efforts by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority, neither Mr. Baggenstos nor the yacht have been located, and New Zealand authorities have no record of his entry into the country.
Baggenstos is described as a seasoned sailor who was in good health, equipped with safety equipment, including life belts, a life raft, GPS unit, Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon and AIS transponder.
Sergeant John Delpero of the Tasmanian Police Missing Persons Unit has expressed grave concern for Mr. Baggenstos’ welfare and urged anyone with information to contact Crimestoppers at 1800 333 000 or online at crimestopperstas.com.au.
“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.”
“Enquiries are continuing.”
