Cetus-Tiger Ship Details and Seafarer Feedback

On August 6, 2019, a freak wave struck the bulk carrier "Cielo Di Palermo" near Port Edward, resulting in injuries to four Filipino crew members. The incident led the vessel to request urgent medical assistance as it approached Port Elizabeth. In response, the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) Port Elizabeth's duty crew, along with an NSRI station doctor and Eastern Cape Government Health EMS rescue paramedics, launched the rescue boat "Spirit of Toft" at approximately 09:20 a.m. on August 7. The crew members were initially treated on board the vessel by the ship's medical team after sustaining a range of injuries, including critical fractures. Specifically, one crew member suffered severe injuries, including fractures to the jaw, hip, clavicle, and a suspected neck fracture. Another sustained a fractured femur and hip, while a third had a fractured tibia. The fourth crew member experienced bruising to the head. Due to the challenging sea conditions, the decision was made to continue medical treatment aboard the bulk carrier. The NSRI Durban team was alerted, and as the ship made its way towards East London, plans were adjusted, and it was decided to proceed to Port Elizabeth instead, where local rescue and medical teams were put on standby. Upon nearing the port, the NSRI successfully transferred medical professionals onto the ship to sustain care for the injured crew. As the vessel entered Port Elizabeth, the NSRI and additional medical teams were ready to provide ongoing treatment. The injured crew members were subsequently transferred onto stretchers and transported by EMS ambulances to local hospitals for further evaluation. Fortunately, they were reported to be in serious but stable condition as they received the necessary medical care.