Crew Reviews, Ratings & Info for Arabella

In a remarkable maritime rescue operation, the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) successfully evacuated a patient from a bulk carrier. The incident took place off the coast of South Africa, showcasing the dedication and swift action of the rescue team. The operation, detailed in a comprehensive report, highlights the challenges faced during the medevac and the teamwork involved in ensuring the patient's safe retrieval. For visuals and more insights into this timely rescue, visit the NSRI's official report at http://www.nsri.org.za/2016/08/patient-evacuated-off-bulk-carrier/.

A dramatic rescue operation unfolded off the coast of Port Elizabeth on Friday, when a 35-year-old Filipino sailor was airlifted from the bulk carrier MV Arabella after sustaining serious injuries during a fall. The incident occurred while the vessel was en route from Mombasa, Kenya, to Corpus Christi, Texas, USA. Upon receiving notification of the injury, the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) mobilized the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) to assist. Justin Erasmus, deputy station commander of NSRI Port Elizabeth, reported that their emergency response team launched the Eikos Rescuer IV at approximately 1:30 PM to meet the troubled ship seven nautical miles northeast of Port Elizabeth. A Relay ambulance services paramedic accompanied the crew for immediate medical support. The injured sailor had suffered back and leg injuries and was stabilized by a government health emergency medical services (EMS) duty doctor who provided guidance via radio. Following the doctor's advice, the MV Arabella was redirected toward Port Elizabeth for the evacuation. The rescue craft reached the scene around 2:00 PM despite challenging conditions, including choppy seas and gusting winds at 25 knots. The sailor was carefully placed into a stokes basket stretcher and safely transported to the NSRI base in the harbor. From there, he was taken by East Cape government health EMS ambulance to a local hospital, where he was reported to be in stable condition. Meanwhile, the MV Arabella resumed its voyage shortly after the incident, according to Erasmus. This timely response highlights the commitment of the NSRI and emergency services in safeguarding lives at sea.