Swiss National Rescued at Sea as Search Continues for Missing From Sunken Vessel
VICTORIA, Seychelles — A Swiss national was rescued at sea on Friday from the sunken vessel Galatea, bringing the total number of people rescued to 10, while two other Swiss nationals and a Seychellois remain unaccounted for in the continuing search operation. The Swiss national rescued at sea was transported to Mahé for further medical evaluations and questioning, and was reported to be in stable condition despite experiencing sun exposure, elevated blood pressure, and mild hypothermia.
The Galatea sank in the early hours of Friday while on a cruise off Marie-Louise Island, at approximately 5:37am. The Seychelles Maritime Safety Authority reported the incident occurred at the position 06°22.55’S — 053°02.289’E. Among the people rescued earlier on Friday, nine were on board a dinghy that reached Desroches Island. Updates on the incident and rescue efforts were provided during a press conference by multiple agencies.
Christian Lionnet, deputy chief executive of the Islands Development Company, confirmed the rescued individuals are in stable health but still in shock, noting that as a precautionary measure, necessary medical evaluations are being conducted before proceeding with questioning. Acting Commissioner of Police Godfra Hermitte said the investigation and questioning are still continuing, with the captain of the vessel remaining in police custody.
Seven people are back on Mahé where they are receiving medical care. Authorities await the arrival of three other rescued individuals scheduled to arrive on Mahé, at which point further steps will be taken to continue the investigation. The joint search operation involves the Ministry of Transport, the SMSA, IDC, SDF, and the National Information Sharing Coordination Centre.
The Ministry of Transport, Civil Aviation and Ports and the SMSA have called on mariners to remain vigilant and exercise extreme caution, and to report any sighting of the vessel or debris. The search for the remaining missing individuals continues as authorities piece together the circumstances surrounding the sinking.
The Galatea incident highlights the importance of maritime safety in Seychelles waters.
