All 32 crew of Ocean Choice’s offshore scalloper Atlantic Destiny which issued a mayday reporting a fire on board late have been safely transferred from the vessel, now reported to have been lost. At the time of the incident the vessel was in the George’s Bank area.
All 32 crew members are safe and accounted for. A total of 28 crew members were safely taken via helicopter to Yarmouth where they received medical attention, food and accommodation.
At approximately 0800 the final four crew members and two Search and Rescue technicians, who stayed with the remaining crew, were safely transferred from the vessel via the Canadian Coast Guard vessel the Cape Roger and are enroute to Shelburne.
‘The safety of our employees is our top priority. It is what matters most to us,’ said Martin Sullivan, CEO Ocean Choice.
‘Our hearts are with our crew and their families at this extremely stressful time. We are extremely grateful that there were no injuries resulting from the fire; and that all 32 crew members are returning safely to their families and loved ones.’
The Canadian and United States Coast Guards as well as several offshore fishing vessels including Cape LaHave, Maude Adams, Atlantic Preserver and Atlantic Protector came to the aid of Atlantic Destiny’s crew.
‘The collective efforts of our crew and all those who came to assist the crew and the vessel resulted in the best possible outcome for this situation,’ said Blaine Sullivan, President, Ocean Choice.
‘We are sincerely thankful to everyone that helped ensure that every single crew member is safe and accounted for.’
Since being notified of the fire, Ocean Choice has provided family members with updates on the on going situation and status of their loved ones. The company has made arrangements to provide the crew and their families with free access to support and counselling services.
Ocean Choice will work with the proper authorities and an investigation into the cause of the fire will commence over the coming days.
