A man who was stranded on a Bahamian island for three days due to his sailboat breaking down was successfully rescued by a U.S. Coast Guard team. The rescue operation occurred on Cay Sal, an island positioned among Florida, Cuba, and the Bahamas. The 64-year-old man from the Bahamas was saved by the crew of the Coast Guard Cutter Paul Clark on Friday, as reported by Fox News.
“A Coast Guard Air Station Miami HC-144 Ocean Sentry aircrew located a man stranded on the island and dropped supplies including food, water and a radio to establish communication,” according to a statement.
“The man notified the crew he’d been stranded for three days after his vessel became disabled during his voyage,” the Friday Coast Guard statement continued.
Using flares launched from his boat, the citizen of the Bahamas successfully attracted the Coast Guard cutter’s attention.
“We’re proud to have saved this man’s life,” said Coast Guard Petty Officer 3rd Class Dev Craig.
“This case serves as a perfect example of why you must have the proper safety equipment on your vessel,” Petty Officer Craig continued. “Without seeing the flare, the case may not have had a successful outcome.”
Upon discovering the individual, whose identity remains undisclosed, the Coast Guard team furnished him with crucial provisions such as food, water, and a radio to stay connected with authorities.
As per a New York Post report, the man was subsequently rescued and taken to a hospital for medical assessment.