We want to share the story of a harrowing experience and dramatic rescue at sea recently, involving a tuna vessel operated by Mark and Cynthia Schneider that is part of the MSC certified WFOA fleet, which operates off the U.S. west coast. Nancy Fitzpatrick, the executive director of the Oregon Albacore Commission, provided the information to members.
Vessel Sinking
Mark and Cynthia Schneider and their two cats Jasper and Topaz were rescued when their F/V Sea Princess sank after an engine area explosion. Mark was fishing for albacore tuna when the incident occurred. He was able to radio a May Day and Rick Goche of F/V Peso II was near enough to come over and pick up Mark, Cynthia and the cats from the water.
Mark has been a commercial fisherman for 27 years, and he and his wife spend their summers together fishing the Pacific for albacore tuna that they supply to New Seasons stores and well as their own private label cans.
Mark credits the Coast Guard training that they have attended over the years for preparing them for various types of situations. As Mark said, “The Coast Guard training worked to save our lives.”
The F/V Sea Princess was purchased several years ago, and Mark has put many months and dollars into re-outfitting the vessel in preparation for this season. Since Mark and Cynthia live and fish aboard their vessel for the summer, they lost not only their boat, but their personal possessions.
Mark is not only a commercial fisherman, but also a commissioner on the Oregon Albacore Commission. Rick Goche, who rescued Mark and Cynthia, is chair of the OAC. We are thankful that Rick was close enough to assist.
If you are interested in helping, a fund for Mark has been established with the Newport Fishermen’s Wives, newportfishermenswives.com.
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