A French vessel named La Belle Michelle sank off the coast of St Kitts on Tuesday, killing at least 15 African nationals who were on board. Thirty Cameroonians had paid thousands of dollars for an illegal trip to the US Virgin Islands. According to reports, at about 9:30 PM, the boat encountered engine problems and capsized.
Sailing yacht Genevieve
At around 1:30 AM, the captain of a sailing yacht named Genevieve heard the screams of a woman in the water and initiated a rescue mission. The yacht crew was able to rescue two people from the water and later found the upturned fishing skiff with 15 survivors straddled on the hull. The yacht crew used a floating line and fender to pull the survivors to safety one by one. Unfortunately, one individual fell from the hull and drowned. Genevieve had 16 survivors who were then brought on board the yacht and given water, sugary drinks, food, and blankets. Investigations are underway, and the Cameroonians are still in St Kitts and Nevis.
Survivors on board of Genevieve
The men and women on board the sunken vessel were reportedly under the impression that they would receive connecting flights to the United States upon arriving in Antigua and Barbuda. However, they were ultimately left stranded on an unfamiliar island. Prime Minister Gaston Browne has expressed his condolences for those who lost their lives, describing the situation as heartbreaking and offering to provide proper burial arrangements.
Sailing yacht Genevieve
The 36.9-meter Genevieve was built by Alloy Yachts from New Zealand who delivered superyacht in 1995. She features the exterior design by Dubois Naval Architects Ltd., and interior by Glade Johnson Design, Inc. The sailing yacht can accommodate up to eight guests across four cabins.
Credits: Dominica News Online; Unsplash.com; Yacht Harbour archive