Global Recognition for Rescue Crew

The maritime industry has recognized the oldest obligation of the sea with an award for rescue at sea. The Lloyds List Global Awards, presented in London on 30 September, bestowed the Amver Assisted Rescue at Sea Award on the crew of the specialized reefer ship Crown Sapphire for their successful rescue of two sailors from a yacht in the Atlantic Ocean in March 2014. The rescue was accomplished in treacherous weather conditions.

Captain Wig, the Crown Sapphire’s commander with almost 25 years’ experience as a captain, gave the order to alter course towards the distressed sailing vessel's position to provide assistance / rescue.

Despite the adverse weather conditions, Captain Wig skilfully maneuvered the Crown Sapphire to a safe position near the sailing yacht to initiate the rescue operations. The crew of the Crown Sapphire had already prepared the rescue gear and were able to safely rescue the sailors.

All rescue efforts are important, no matter how small, but to be singled out for their efforts is a compliment to the dedication and professionalism of crew members.

Chief Officer Gennady Dubinin was a special guest at Wallem Group’s table at the Awards, and was on stage, along with Wallem Group CEO Simon Doughty, to receive the Award on behalf of the Crown Sapphire crew. 

Crown Sapphire is a specialized reefer ship operated by NYKCool AB, owned by NYK Reefers Ltd., and managed by Wallem Ship Management.

The Crown Sapphire crew received a letter of commendation for the rescue from the United States Coast Guard which praised the seafarers for their “vigilance during this mission is greatly appreciated and exemplifies the commitment of all mariners, to help others in distress."

Photo credit: Philippa Gedge Photography; www.philippagedge.com