Sailor Rescued From Capsized Boat 86 Miles Offshore Day After Going Missing

Stuart Bee departed Cape Marina in Port Canaveral, Florida, on Friday (27 November) and did not return.

The following day the 62-year-old was reported missing, as he does not typically stay out on his boat overnight.

Thankfully, yesterday (Sunday) morning, he was spotted by a passing container ship clinging to the bow of his capsized vessel, 86 miles out at sea.

He was brought aboard after almost two days at sea.

Lacruiser P. Relativo, a merchant mariner who was on board the Angeles container ship, recalled how the rescue came about.

In a post on Facebook, he said: "I was awakened by a call with a sense of urgency that we need to rescue someone. As merchant mariners, we were trained to the toughest degree of distress that can possibly happen at sea.

"However, the actual scene is often different. After careful manoeuvres, we successfully rescued Mr. Stuart. Before I could start questioning, he first asked me 'What day it is today?', 'November 29!', I responded.

"By the look on his face, I saw his teary eyes as he the made sign of the cross. He was drifted in the open sea for days, maintaining his stance at the top of his capsized boat, to not make any single move as it may trigger his yacht to sink fully."

He continued: "We offered him dry clothes and hot meals. I choose to give him my 'lucky shirt'. I could give him a new one but this one is my favourite.

"I wish him the same comfort this shirt has given me during those tiring job interviews. Just like him, I was lucky to get the job. He was lucky too that our course crossed in the Atlantic."

Capt. Mark Vlaun, commanding officer of Sector Jacksonville, said: "Saving lives at sea is our highest calling.

"This is a truly incredible outcome that demonstrates the bond among all mariners and our community.

"Thank you to our mission partners that launch into action and to all who got the word out to find and rescue Mr. Bee."