Working Conditions Aboard the Neptune-Ethos

In a remarkable rescue operation, the vehicle carrier 'Neptune Ethos', while navigating from Malaga, successfully saved eight North African men stranded on a small boat located 26 nautical miles from Benidorm on the night of July 1, 2024. Following an urgent alert at 7:41 p.m., the vessel contacted Salvamento Marítimo after spotting five individuals in the water, all of whom were wearing life jackets. The MRCC in Valencia promptly directed the 'Neptune Ethos' to facilitate their rescue. Meanwhile, a search operation by the SAR vessel 'Guardamar Polimnia' was underway, initiated ten miles off Cabo de la Nao, with hopes of locating three additional migrants who were reportedly aboard the ill-fated vessel. Despite extensive efforts lasting several hours, the search was called off at 2:25 p.m. after no further survivors were found, as confirmed by Maritime Rescue sources. In a coordinated effort, rescue teams including the SAR helicopter Helimer 203 and the Civil Guard patrol boat 'Río Oja' were also dispatched to assist in the mission. The heroic ‘Neptune Ethos’ commenced the recovery of the shipwrecked individuals at 8:14 p.m. Fortunately, the five men rescued were found to be in good health. They later recounted that their perilous journey had begun from Tipaza on June 27, heading towards Alicante. Following their rescue, three of the migrants were airlifted to Valencia, while the remaining five continued their voyage aboard the vehicle carrier to its final destination at Fos, with an estimated arrival time of July 3.