What Crew Members Say About Nefeli

On April 8, 2021, the Premar Atlantique received an urgent call regarding a crew member injured aboard the bulk carrier 'Agri Queen,' which was navigating 265 nautical miles southwest of the Breton coast. By 8:45 p.m., the CROSS Etel took command of the rescue operation. Following a medical consultation conducted via telephone, the decision was made to evacuate the injured sailor. A Cayman helicopter from the 33F flotilla stationed at the Lanvéoc-Poulmic naval air base, accompanied by a medical team specializing in maritime rescue from the Finistère emergency medical aid service (SAMU 29), was dispatched. To assist with the operation, a Falcon 50 surveillance aircraft from the 24F flotilla of the Lann-Bihoué naval air base was also launched to provide aerial support, reposition the vessel, and facilitate communications with shore authorities. After more than an hour, the Caiman helicopter made a brief stop on the frigate 'Aquitaine' to refuel, while the Falcon 50 circled above the stricken cargo ship. The helicopter then delivered the medical team to the 'Agri Queen' to attend to the injured crew member. At precisely 2:44 a.m. on April 9, the sailor, along with the medical team, was hoisted aboard the helicopter. By 4:15 a.m., the victim arrived at the Cavale Blanche regional university hospital in Brest, where medical staff were ready to provide care. At the time of the incident, the 'Agri Queen' was en route from Ponta Ubu to Ghent with a total of 21 crew members and an expected time of arrival on April 10.