AMVER gas carrier rescues six on disabled sailboat

The following is the text of a news release from the U.S. Coast Guard:

(WASHINGTON) — The AMVER participating liquefied natural gas (LNG) carrier Methane Kari Elin rescued six people from their 50-foot sailboat after the crew sent a distress text message that their boat had lost its rudder and they were taking on water approximately 1,200 miles east of San Juan, Puerto Rico on Dec. 12.

U.S. Coast Guard rescue personnel in San Juan received a report from the International Emergency Response Coordination Center that the sailboat had suffered damage and was taking on water. Coast Guard personnel immediately sent messages to all available ships in the area and conducted an AMVER (Automated Mutual-Assistance Vessel Rescue System) surface picture. The Bermuda-flagged Methane Kari Elin agreed to divert and assist the stricken sailors.

The crew of the 912-foot gas carrier posted additional lookouts and arrived on the scene with the disabled sailboat. The crew then began rescue operations and successfully embarked the six survivors who were uninjured. The survivors remained aboard the ship until it reached its next port of call. The sailboat was left adrift approximately 1,100 miles east of Puerto Rico.

Methane Kari Elin, managed by Shell International Trading and Shipping Co. of London, enrolled in AMVER on June 24, 2004 and has earned 10 AMVER awards for participation.

By Professional Mariner Staff