Castaway suing cruise company for sailing by

Written by Ross Smith

Tuesday, 15 May 2012 12:59

A fisherman stranded in the pacific ocean for nearly a month is planning on suing Princess Cruises after their ship didn't stop and aid the castaway even though people on the boat may have reported his distress signal. Adrian Vasquez, who is only 18, from Panama, was stranded in The Pacific Ocean for an incredible 28 days during which two of his work colleagues died of dehydration. Media reports suggest that Mr Vasquez is suing the American cruise company Princess Cruises in the jurisdiction of Florida for not acting and assisting with his plight. Engine Failure Left Fishing Boat Stranded At that stage Mr Vasquez had been at sea 16 days with his two colleagues who later passed away. The three men were adrift due to the engine failure to their three metre long open fishing boat. They attempted to attract the attention of the passing Princess Cruise ship with the use of a red jumper, but to no avail. Mr Vasquez was able to survive as a result of collecting rainwater during a heavy downpour. It has been reported that some passengers on the cruise liner had sighted the distress signal but a communication breakdown meant the cruise ship carried on. The reasons aren't clear at present, but the Captain of the Princess Cruise ship wasn't told of the call for help. According to various International laws, and supported by the United Nations and the International Maritime Organization, once staff became aware of a distress signal they were obliged to assist . Their failure to do so could be costly now that Mr Vasquez has indicated he will be suing Princess Cruises. For more information you can contact us via our website at: www.accidents-abroad.com