The family of a charter cruise captain who died in an unfortunate accident have spoken of their loss.

Mark Whayman died on Sunday night after jumping into the water at Castle Harbour to free the anchor of his boat. The 53-year-old had been preparing to take his passengers home when the accident occurred.

A family statement released on behalf of his sister, Dale Northcote, and brother, Andrew yesterday revealed that Mr Whayman had spent much of his life on the water.

“Our brother Mark and ourselves all grew up on the water at The Narrow’s House, St. David’s,” the siblings said. “Our Dad liberally supplied us with second hand boats to mess around in.

“Sunfish, dinghies and punts were our playground.

“Mark, Dale and Andrew spent hours on the water rowing and sailing.

“From an early age, Mark was a friendly outgoing person who made many friends here in Bermuda and overseas and always made sure to stay in touch with friends and family.”

It had first appeared that Mr Whayman’s boat, Sand Dollar, had run aground, but it has now emerged that the 40ft sloop had been at anchor off Castle Point as the tide went out.

Mr Whayman dived into the water to untangle the anchor which had become stuck but sustained serious head injuries.

He was rushed to hospital but died from his injuries in the early hours of Monday morning.

Mr Whayman was a popular and well respected mariner in the East End and had run his own charter cruise company, Sand Dollar Cruises, for many years.

He was also a long standing member of the St George’s Dinghy and Sports Club.

His uncle, Russell Whayman, described his nephew as a ‘laid back guy’ who got along with everyone.

“Mark was very close with both of my sons, Tom and Bruce, growing up in Bermuda,” he said. “He and Tom did all sorts of sailing expeditions together like the tall ships race.

“Mark was an easy going guy, nothing really bothered him. He got along with everyone — he was just that sort of person.

“The whole family is very upset at the moment.”