Tag: rescue

Concordia Rescue Photos via AMVER

Concordia Liferafts via AMVER blog courtesy of Mitsui O.S.K. Lines Ltd
Concordia liferafts via the AMVER blog courtesy of Mitsui O.S.K. Lines Ltd

The AMVER blog has posted several photos sent to them by program member Mitsui O.S.K. Lines Ltd.,  managers of the Hokuetsu Delight and Crystal Pioneer. Both vessels played a lead role in rescuing the 64 students and crew of the Canadian training ship Concordia which sank off the coast of Brazil last Wednesday, February 17th.

Being that IMO has designated 2010 “The Year of the Seafarer” these photos celebrate not only the success of the rescue but also the importance of enrolling in the AMVER program and looking out for fellow mariners.

You do not need to be a large commercial ship to be part of AMVER. Many smaller vessels like Concordia and the Sea Education Association’s SSV Corwith Cramer and SSV Robert C. Seamans participate too. If you own or operate a commericial vessel, do yourself and the entire maritime community a favor and sign up today!

To learn more about what AMVER does check outConcordia, AMVER, EPIRBs and At Sea Rescues and listen to episode 36 of the Messing About In Ships podcast You can also check them out on their website,  blog , Twitter and download their iPhone App. No excuses to be informed and get involved!

Concordia, AMVER, EPIRBs and At Sea Rescues

AMVER logoThis morning I had the good fortune to speak with Ben Strong from the US Coast Guard’s AMVER unit. (Automated Mutual-Assistance Vessel Rescue System) AMVER is a voluntary system where commercial ships report their positions so that they can assist in at sea rescues.

Let’s face it, the oceans are vast and boats, no matter how big, are still small. If something happens out there and you need some help, there’s a good chance that the first responder will be a commercial ship. An added benefit of participating in the system is that regular position reporting will help you to be found if you encounter some kind of catastrophic event at sea.

Ben confirmed that all three vessels involved in the Concordia rescue were enrolled in the AMVER program. (Concordia, Hokuetsu Delight and Crystal Pioneer) AMVER blog post: Concordia update- Amver ships save school children in high seas rescue

Here’s my discussion with Ben about EPIRBs (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons) and rescues at sea.

If you want to learn more about AMVER, listen to episode 36 of the Messing About In Ships podcast and check them our on their website,  blog , Twitter and download their  iPhone App.