Orange Juice Tanker Rescues Solo Sailor from Sinking Ship near Puerto Rico

The US Coast Guard and the crew of the orange juice tanker Orange Ocean successfully rescued a solo sailor in distress 420 miles north of Puerto Rico, Kirill Vladimirovich Mikhaylov, who was attempting a solo transit from Bermuda to St. Maarten aboard his sailing vessel Confused. An unregistered Emergency Positioning Radio Beacon (EPIRB) signal prompted a rapid response from the Coast Guard Sector San Juan, leading to the rescue operation. The tanker Orange Ocean, a 557-foot Liberia-flagged juice tanker, answered the call and safely retrieved Mikhailov after his vessel burst into flames and sank.

The partnership between the Coast Guard and the AMVER network, as seen in this rescue operation, plays a crucial role in protecting lives at sea. This case underscores the importance of emergency equipment like EPIRBs and the readiness of AMVER merchant vessels to assist in maritime emergencies. Coast Guard Sector San Juan’s coordination with the crew of the Orange Ocean was instrumental in saving the sailor’s life, highlighting the critical role of communication and coordination in such operations.

The Orange Ocean, managed by Atlanship SA, specializes in operating vessels for the food industry, particularly those transporting chilled fruit juices in large quantities. The successful rescue operation was a testament to the teamwork and quick response of all parties involved, showcasing the dedication to maritime safety and the importance of having the necessary emergency equipment on board. This partnership between the Coast Guard and the marine industry demonstrates a commitment to ensuring the safety of those navigating the seas.

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