Three fishermen from Ba, who were reported missing at sea, have been safely found. According to a report from May 24, 1997, Patrick Gerrish, Shalen Narayan, and Bisun Prasad were rescued by a Feeders Fiji Ltd fishing vessel, located 27 miles northwest of Viwa in Yasawa.

The fishermen appeared tired yet visibly relieved, still recovering from their harrowing experience when interviewed. Mr. Gerrish recounted, “We had lost all hope, and we hardly talked while on the boat except to pray.” Upon seeing the fishing vessel, he described how they desperately waved, expressing their immense relief after drifting for seven or eight days without any signs of life.

Originally, the trio set off for the Yasawas with only three days’ worth of supplies. They managed to survive on rice and water, but their resources were running perilously low when they were discovered. Gerrish noted their gratitude towards the crew of the Feeders vessel, saying, “We can’t thank them enough.” He added that they had to discard about $600 worth of fish on the first day to conserve ice, and by the time they were rescued, only a minimal amount of water remained.

The fishermen were navigating a 26-foot half-cabin vessel powered by a 40-horsepower Yamaha engine, which encountered mechanical issues. Cama Rogo, the captain of the fishing vessel that rescued them, initially thought the men were attempting to steal fish but quickly remembered the report about missing fishermen upon observing their distressed waving. Fortunately, the crew managed to meet the fishermen close to shore due to unfavorable weather conditions, and they immediately provided food for the survivors.

This story not only highlights the importance of community and quick response in times of crisis but also serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of nature and the critical need for safety precautions while at sea. It’s heartwarming to see such a successful rescue, restoring faith that hope can prevail in dire situations.