32 years ago the Amver system came to the rescue of the stricken cruise ship Prinsendam after the vessel caught fire in the Gulf of Alaska. Four Amver vessels diverted and assisted in the rescue efforts. The tanker Williamsburgh embarked 175 survivors and served as a platform for U.S. Coast Guard helicopters.Today Amver continues to save lives near Alaska. Vessels that transit the Arctic are encouraged to enroll in Amver. The Prinsendam rescue helped prove the value of the commercial shipping community in search and rescue. Amver participants stepped up to the challenge, ensuring no call for help shall go unanswered.
Here is a link to the radio log of the SOS sent by the Prinsendam.
Photo credit: USCG
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