The Stelio-Montomoli: Crew Feedback and Vessel Data

On June 14, 2020, a heroic rescue operation unfolded in the Piombino Channel as the crew aboard the ferry 'Stelio Montomoli' spotted a distressing sight – a dinghy spiraling in small circles and, not far off, a man struggling in the water. The alert crew swiftly raised the alarm and brought the ferry to a stop. They launched a life buoy toward the castaway while simultaneously notifying the Coast Guard. Responding quickly, a patrol boat departed from Portoferraio and another from Piombino, with the Piombino vessel reaching the endangered man first. The individual in peril was identified as a 40-year-old resident of Fiesole, who had set out that morning from the port of Terre Rosse in Piombino, aiming to fish near the island of Elba. Unfortunately, during his return in the early afternoon, his dinghy suffered a malfunction when the console was damaged, causing the rudder to jam and leading him to be tossed overboard. Despite being an adept swimmer, he was unable to climb back onto the vessel before assistance arrived.