A Shell LNG carrier and a Cosco containership have combined resources to come to the aid of a British yachtsman in trouble off Puerto Rico.
The 9,600-teu CSCL Long Beach (built 2007) and the 136,985-cbm Gemmata (built 2004) took part in the rescue of 39-year-old Carl Michael Corey late last week, according to the US Coast Guard (USCG).
The two ships, working with the USCG cutter Joseph Napier, responded to calls for assistance when Corey's 36-foot sailing vessel Jade became disabled in the Caribbean Sea, approximately 114 nautical miles (211 km) southeast of Yabucoam, Puerto Rico.
"With deteriorating weather, the Joseph Napier crew quickly employed the cutter's small boat to rescue the master of the sailing vessel, showcasing their professionalism and proficiency in such a dynamic environment,” said Lieutenant Matthew Miller, commanding officer of the cutter.
“I can't think of a better way to end 2020 than bringing this boater to safety."
Broken sails and damaged rudder
Corey was sailing solo on New Year’s Eve when his boat was disabled and left adrift due to broken sails, a damaged rudder and insufficient fuel to reach a safe harbour in the degrading sea state and weather conditions.
USCG watch standers in San Juan are said to have received a notification from the master of the Hong Kong-flag CSCL Long Beach, who relayed a distress call from the Jade received via VHF marine radio digital selective calling transmission.
Shell’s Singapore-flag Gemmata also diverted to the scene and served as a communications platform with the Jade while the Joseph Napier completed a 150-nautical-mile rescue dash.
Once on scene, the Joseph Napier launched a small boat that came alongside the Jade. The boat crew safely embarked Corey, who reportedly had not sustained any injuries and did not require medical assistance.
The Joseph Napier sailed to Mayaguez, Puerto Rico, where officials helped Corey gain admission into the US to make the necessary arrangements to continue his trip, the USCG said.
