WILLEMSTAD – The Dutch Caribbean Coast Guard and CITRO carried out a coordinated assistance operation near Westpunt after two local fishing vessels encountered engine problems, leaving their occupants requiring help at sea.
The Coast Guard’s Maritime Operations Center (MOC) received a request for assistance Thursday morning from the fishing vessel Charnelle, which had developed engine trouble near Westpunt. Two local men were aboard the vessel.
Following the report, the MOC dispatched a Coast Guard helicopter to locate the vessel and assess the situation.
Authorities discovered that Charnelle did not have a VHF marine radio on board. The two fishermen were relying solely on a mobile telephone for communication.
The men told the Coast Guard that they had contacted friends who were coming to assist them aboard another fishing vessel, Arca. However, after reaching the area, Arca also developed problems and was unable to assist Charnelle.
With both vessels experiencing difficulties, the MOC expanded the operation. The Coast Guard helicopter was again dispatched to evacuate the two men aboard Charnelle, while CITRO, a Coast Guard Metal Shark vessel and a Coast Guard aircraft were deployed to assist Arca.
The helicopter successfully hoisted the two occupants of Charnelle to safety. Water and food were also delivered to those aboard Arca.
Shortly afterward, the two men aboard Arca managed to restart their engine and were able to sail back to Playa Piskado under their own power. CITRO subsequently took Charnelle under tow and brought the disabled vessel toward Playa Piskado.
Following the operation, the Coast Guard emphasized the importance of carrying reliable communications equipment at sea. Authorities warned that relying exclusively on a mobile phone is insufficient because a device can lose its signal, malfunction or run out of battery.
The Coast Guard recommends that vessels carry a VHF marine radio, which provides a more reliable means of communicating with authorities and other vessels during emergencies.
Boat owners are also being urged to maintain their vessels regularly and carry adequate safety and rescue equipment, including life jackets, flashlights, a first-aid kit, sufficient drinking water, a fire extinguisher, a VHF radio and a fully charged mobile phone.
People requiring emergency assistance at sea can contact the Coast Guard through VHF channel 16, emergency number 913 or WhatsApp at +5999 510 0913.