Discover the Hoegh-Brasilia: Ratings & Maritime News

On March 12, 2021, the crew aboard the Hoegh Brasilia, traveling from Auckland to Hitachinaka, played a critical role in rescuing five fishermen who had been missing since March 9 near Houk Island, Chuuk. This operation involved collaborative efforts from the Coast Guard, Air Force, and the Federated States of Micronesia. The fishermen had set out on a 23-foot skiff when they failed to return, prompting alarms to be raised. The Joint Rescue Sub-Center Guam received notification at 7:15 p.m. on March 11 regarding the overdue skiff, which led to a broadcast alerting mariners in the vicinity. In response, the Coast Guard dispatched an HC-130 Hercules aircraft from Air Station Barbers Point and rerouted the CG Cutter Myrtle Hazard to assist in the search. Volunteer commercial vessels were also requested to aid in the operation. The next day, a KC-135 Stratotanker crew from Andersen Air Force Base in Guam located the fishermen approximately 50 miles southwest of Polusuk Atoll. The aircraft remained on site until the Coast Guard C-130 crew arrived, providing a Search and Rescue (SAR) kit containing vital supplies such as food, water, and handheld radios. Shortly thereafter, the Hoegh Brasilia approached and successfully recovered all five crew members. The sub-center instructed the vessel to head to Houk Island, where it remained offshore for the night. The following morning, the Cutter Myrtle Hazard returned the skiff and its occupants safely back to the island.