Most of us will thankfully only ever have to read about stories like this, but the idea of being stranded out at sea is one that terrifies all of us. Whether you’re an experienced swimmer or sailor – it doesn’t make a difference. Getting lost far out in the middle of nowhere where there’s no way to reach out for help, feed yourself, or drink anything is something that will make the most experienced adventurers rethink that kayaking or sailing trip.
However, even though the chances of being caught drifting out at sea without really going anywhere is something that will most likely never happen to most people, but it happens a lot more often than many of us will realize.
Recently though, two fishermen were stranded between Grand Cayman Island and Jamaica when their boat ran out of fuel. as a result, they were stranded in the deep sea for nearly three weeks in total. They had no way to contact anyone for help, couldn’t direct themselves towards land, and had very little supplies to make it even worse!
As day after day crept by, the men grew weaker and weaker. They had managed to catch a little fish for food, but their fresh water supply was dwindling dangerously low. Then, almost as if out of nowhere – a loud foghorn sounded in the middle of the night!
The men scrambled to reach their signal light and shone it at the distant lights they saw on the horizon. Thankfully, they were spotted by a cruise ship called The Empress of the Sea – something the captain considers miraculous because they were not supposed to be in the area and were there purely by chance.
After being rescued, the fisherman had their boat towed in and were given medical treatment. They were even gifted $300 each after being released from the hospital. Needless to say, they’re grateful to be alive and will probably bring a little extra fuel with them next time.
