Sailor Afloat For 24 Hours At Sea After Falling From A Ship Rescued Near Australian Coast

A Vietnamese sailor was found alive nearly a day after falling overboard from a Singapore-based cargo ship near Australia.

The man, a crew member on the bulk carrier Double Delight, had fallen into the water late Thursday night while out on deck. He was later found by fishermen nearly eight nautical miles off the coast of Newcastle, New South Whales.

The ship’s crew reported him missing around 11:30 p.m. local time Thursday, and the coastal authorities launched an extensive search operation.

The night-time operation involved two helicopters, two boats, and an aircraft, but no sign of the sailor was found overnight.

On Friday evening, two recreational fishermen near Blacksmiths Beach spotted the sailor floating and waving in the water.

One of the rescuers described the discovery as an “absolute miracle,” recalling how his friend suddenly called out when he saw the man in the water.

After rescuing the sailor, the fishermen covered him in blankets and gave him water before alerting emergency services.

Paramedics from New South Wales responded by arriving at Boatrowers Reserve in Swansea to treat the man for hypothermia and exhaustion. The sailor, who was in his twenties, was reportedly cold and exhausted but able to communicate with rescuers.

Medical personnel treated the sailor on the spot before taking him to John Hunter Hospital, where he was in stable but serious condition. According to officials, he was found wearing a life jacket, which could have contributed to his survival after over 24 hours in the water.

Authorities are investigating the circumstances behind his fall.

The NSW Police have sent the matter to Border Force to determine if the occurrence was accidental or intentional, as the sailor was found wearing a life jacket and a plastic bag carrying private belongings like an ID, wallet, and cigarettes.

References: NDTV, Sky News