The cruise ship Silver Whisper interrupted its 24-day Transpacific Reposition Spring voyage from Papeete to Vancouver after responding to a distress call involving a disabled sailing yacht in the Pacific Ocean.
The request for assistance was received through the Coast Guard on Tuesday, May 26th, while the vessel was several hours from the casualty position. Captain Michele Macarone Palmieri subsequently altered course and directed the ship toward the stricken yacht.
Passengers later observed the damaged sailboat approaching on the vessel’s port side in moderate ocean swells. The yacht had reportedly lost its mast and was unable to continue under sail. Accounts from those on board indicated that the lone sailor had sustained a shoulder injury.
Working in coordination with Coast Guard authorities, the bridge team aboard Silver Whisper carried out the approach before crew members launched a recovery operation. Despite open-ocean conditions, the injured sailor was transferred safely to the cruise ship and received medical attention on board.
Guests later remarked on the measured and professional conduct of the captain and crew throughout the operation. Following the stabilization of the injured sailor, Silver Whisper resumed its scheduled passage toward Vancouver.
For more Silver Whisper incidents and accidents, see the ship's CruiseMinus page