Discover the Al-Safa: Ratings & Maritime News

In a remarkable display of maritime teamwork, four French sailors were rescued today, more than 1,400 miles east-northeast of Provincetown, Massachusetts. The coordinated effort involved the U.S. Coast Guard, the Canadian Joint Rescue Coordination Centre Halifax, a Canadian Forces CC-130 Hercules, and two merchant vessels. The distressed sailors were located aboard their 36-foot sailboat, Roule Ta Bille, which capsized after the mast broke. The rescue was successfully executed by the 600-foot tanker Unique Sunshine, a proud member of the Automated Mutual-Assistance Vessel Rescue System (AMVER), and the 250-foot oil rig tender Maersk Chancellor. Although the sailboat was eventually righted, it was unable to navigate back to port. This heroic incident highlights the importance of international cooperation in maritime emergencies. For more details and captivating photos, visit http://www.capecodtoday.com/blogs/index.php/2011/09/08/french-sailors-rescued-1-400-off-cape-co?blog=53.