The MV Awka, which suffered engine failure at sea before all 73 passengers and crew were rescued. Image: Solomon Star News
THREE days after losing power and drifting at sea, the Solomon Islands ferry MV Awka with 73 passengers and crew arrived under tow at Vanikoro.
The ship lost power on October 9 while on a regular run from Anuta to Vanikoro in Temotu Province.
Australian and French military aircraft located the ferry and dropped emergency supplies after passengers raised the alarm using on-board internet services powered by the vessel’s auxiliary generator.
The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force patrol boat, Gizo, arrived on the scene on Sunday night to begin rescue operations and was supported hours later by the Vanuatu health response ship, MV HELPR 1.
Rescuers transferred passengers and crew from MV Awka to MV Helpr 1 before taking them ashore.
The Temotu provincial government confirmed that everyone aboard was safe.