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Cargo ship Rescues Two from Stricken Yacht

Images courtesy of AMSA
Images courtesy of AMSA

Published Jul 23, 2018 1:11 AM by The Maritime Executive

The Singapore-flagged general cargo ship IVS Phinda rescued two Australian sailors on Monday 370 kilometers (230 miles) north of Darwin, Australia.

The Australians were sailing from Indonesia to Australia on their yacht the Jepeda IV when they lost their mast in rough weather. Unable to navigate safely, the couple activated their distress beacon late on Sunday night.

The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) tasked its Challenger search and rescue jet from Cairns to locate the yacht. AMSA also issued a broadcast to shipping in the area requesting assistance. A nearby ship, the 180-meter (591-foot) IVS Phinda responded to AMSA’s broadcast and diverted to the stricken yacht’s location overnight.

The crew of the IVS Phinda rescued the couple shortly after first light on Monday.