(Loop)-Three French nationals, a native of Greek and a dog were rescued in waters north of Montserrat after the yacht they were on began taking in water.
According to the Royal Montserrat Police Force, on May 19 a crew led by Captain Darroux responded to a May Day call about seven nautical miles north of Montserrat.
On arrival at the scene, a yacht named Palma was met with five souls on board. Their vessel at the time was taking in water at an alarming rate. Captain Darroux having assessed the situation instructed the five-member party which included a dog, to abandon ship and board mv Heliconia Star.
The four-member party consisted of Captain Basil a native of Greece and three French nationals. The rescued party were sailing from St Kitts to Guadeloupe with onward travel to Martinique when the unfortunate incident occurred.
On arrival at Port Little Bay a team from the Montserrat Fire and Rescue Service led by Fire Officer Sheldon White was on scene to render medical assistance. The Montserrat Red Cross was informed of the mishap and ably provided personal effects to assist.
Additional support was given by a combined effort from the Housing Department and Social Services where arrangements were put in place to provide them with temporary accommodation.
The police force said though Captain Basil’s vessel sank he was very appreciative as were the others to have been rescued. Arrangements were then put in place for the rescued party to be taken to Guadeloupe on May 20.
Designated Person Ashore Courtney Rodney continues to emphasise the importance of having saving equipment on board such as working radio, flares and life jackets as once again it proved vital in saving the lives of the rescue party.
