Cruise Ship Rescues Sailors and Dogs in Wild Seas

Four sailors and three dogs were rescued by the Carnival Splendor cruise ship after their catamaran became disabled in rough waters south of New Caledonia.

The trouble began early Thursday when the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre in Noumea received an emergency beacon from the vessel. The catamaran, en route to Fiji after completing a voyage around Australia, had lost engine power and its mast was damaged during severe weather.

Aboard the stranded catamaran were Australian travel bloggers Dusty and Helena, another couple, and their three dogs. Fortunately, Carnival Splendor—on an eight-day cruise from Sydney to Vanuatu and New Caledonia—was notified and quickly diverted its course to assist.

After a five-hour detour, the cruise liner reached the troubled boat and safely brought the group on board. The rescued sailors and their pets are now recovering in a cabin, where they’re receiving food, water, medical care, and rest.

“All of them are safe, which is a relief,” said Lynne Scrivens, communications director for Carnival Cruise Line. “It’s amazing we were nearby and able to help. It’s definitely a rescue they’ll remember.”

With more than 3,300 passengers already aboard, the rescue added an unexpected but uplifting moment to the ship’s journey. Carnival Splendor continues on schedule, with planned stops at Mystery Island on Friday and Noumea on Saturday, before returning to Sydney next Tuesday.