Following containership’s “Southwester” sinking off Portugal coast, all of its 14 crewmemembers evacuated the freighter, as they were rescued by nearby cargo ship.
In fact, Southwester called for assistance at about 0030 hours on Thursday, as there was water ingress and the engine room was reportedly flooded.
Following the situation, the vessel issued distress signal, reporting flooding and danger of capsizing.
Later that morning, its crewmembers evacuated the container ship as they were rescued by another merchant vessel which brought them safely to the port of Leixões.
For the records, at the time of the incident, Southwester was en route from Bretagne France to Seville Spain.
Concluding, Portugal Maritime Safety Authority noted that the ship is currently afloat, as authorities are collaborating with the shipowner on a towing plan involving two tugs.
