Spanish Fishing Vessel Sinks in Severe Storm | Mariner News

The maritime community is saddened by news that a Spanish fishing vessel sinks in a severe storm, despite valiant salvage efforts. The longliner Itoitz was lost to the harsh Atlantic conditions after a towline parted, marking a tragic end to a desperate rescue operation off the Spanish coast. This maritime incident highlights the perilous nature of deep-sea fishing and the formidable power of the ocean.

Perilous Rescue Attempt

The Itoitz had issued a distress call after taking on a severe list amidst a raging tempest. Seven crew members were successfully rescued by a good Samaritan vessel and subsequently airlifted to safety without injury. Initial attempts to board the stricken fishing vessel with a salvage crew were thwarted by extreme weather, including winds over 30 knots and waves reaching 20 feet, making conditions unsafe for responders.

Harsh Conditions Prevail

Despite a brief moderation in wave height, efforts by the response vessel Maria Pita to establish a tow line proved futile, with the line parting under the immense strain. The Itoitz continued its drift, becoming increasingly vulnerable as the storm intensified once more. The rescue tug Alonso de Chaves replaced the Maria Pita, but the fate of the longliner was sealed, swallowed by the unforgiving sea roughly 40 nautical miles north of Ribadeo. This maritime disaster serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced at sea.