Italian Coast Guard Leads Two Crucial Ship Rescues | Mariner News

The Italian Coast Guard demonstrated remarkable skill and swift coordination by overseeing the successful rescues of two merchant ships within two days in the same Mediterranean region. Facing challenging winter storm conditions and critical engine failures, their operations averted potential disasters, ensuring the safety of crews and vessels.

Livestock Carrier’s Harrowing Tow

One significant incident involved the livestock carrier Blue Ocean A, which lost propulsion off the coast of Sardinia. On January 29, after a night battling strong winds that pushed the vessel dangerously close to rocks, the Coast Guard, with tug assistance, skillfully repositioned the ship. The towing operation successfully brought the 33-person crew and vessel safely into Porto Canale of Cagliari for necessary checks, despite earlier attempts by the Italian Navy to airlift the crew being thwarted by severe weather.

Second Vessel in Distress Off Sicily

While the first rescue was underway, a second foreign-flag cargo ship reported engine failure approximately seven nautical miles south of Pozzallo, Sicily. The Italian Coast Guard’s operations center immediately initiated a rescue plan, dispatching assets to assist the distressed vessel. Their prompt response ensured that this second maritime emergency was also managed effectively, guiding the ship to safety without further incident.

These rapid and successful responses underscore the critical role of the Italian Coast Guard in maintaining maritime safety across its busy waters. Their ability to coordinate complex rescues under duress is a testament to their dedication to protecting lives at sea.