Working Conditions Aboard the Geulborg

On the evening of December 13, 2016, the crew aboard the cargo ship "André W." played a pivotal role in rescuing a missing fisherman near Rerik. The fisherman, who hailed from Timmendorf upon Poel, was officially reported overdue earlier that evening by concerned family members. In response, the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) of the German Society for Rescue at Sea (DGzRS) in Bremen sprang into action, notifying vessels in the vicinity and mobilizing several lifesaving units. The lifeboat "Günther Schöps" from the Timmendorf/Poel station, alongside the "Hans Hackmack" from the Grömitz station and the "Arkona" from Warnemünde, were dispatched for the search effort. Additionally, the Federal Police contributed with their vessels "Eschwege" and "Altmark," while the water police in Wismar coordinated search operations along the coastline. At approximately 7:20 p.m., the crew of the "André W." detected a radar signal off the nature reserve Wustrow. However, due to the ship’s draught, they could not approach closer. Luckily, the fishery protection vessel "Seeadler" was redirected to the coordinates provided by the cargo ship’s crew. Following a successful man overboard (MOB) operation, the missing fisherman was located and retrieved. By 7:45 p.m., the "Günther Schöps" had safely brought the man aboard. His fishing vessel, which had experienced engine and electronic equipment failure earlier that day and drifted away, was towed back to Timmendorf, arriving at around 9:40 p.m. Despite the challenges posed by darkness, the fisherman had valiantly attempted to signal for help using his flashlight before being found. This incident highlights the remarkable coordination and dedication of maritime rescue teams in safeguarding lives at sea.