What happened
The pilot reported departing Valkaria, Florida, on a visual flight rules (VFR) round robin flight intended for Great Abaco Island, Bahamas, with plans to return. While operating on the return leg of this journey, the engine experienced a sudden loss of power. The pilot attempted to restore engine function but was unsuccessful. Unable to maintain altitude or glide to a suitable landing site, the pilot executed a ditching maneuver in ocean waters.
The investigation
Details regarding the mechanical examination of the aircraft were not provided in the source text.
Findings
The two occupants aboard the aircraft survived the initial incident but remained stranded in the water. They were rescued two days later by personnel from a cruise ship that happened to be in the vicinity.