In a harrowing turn of events, a sailboat measuring approximately 15 meters and carrying eight individuals found itself grounded on a rocky area between Praia da Luz and Praia do Burgau in Lagos municipality on Wednesday afternoon. Despite the initial scare, no injuries were reported.
According to the National Maritime Authority (AMN), six occupants were promptly and safely transported to the shore, thanks to the assistance provided by tourist boats in the vicinity. This swift response from the nearby vessels played a crucial role in ensuring the well-being of those on board.
Meanwhile, the remaining two crew members elected to remain aboard the vessel, actively participating in the efforts to dislodge it from the treacherous rocky terrain. The endeavor received further support from a boat dispatched from the Sagres Lifeboat Station, highlighting the collaborative nature of the rescue operation.
Following the successful removal of the sailboat from its grounding location, the crew navigated their vessel to the Port of Lagos. There, with the invaluable collaboration of the Lagos Voluntary Fire Brigade, diligent efforts were made to drain the water that had entered the vessel during the accident.
The alert of the incident was raised at 5:40 PM, prompting the swift mobilization of several units, including the Local Command of the Maritime Police of Lagos, the Sagres Lifeguard Station, and the Lagos Volunteer Fire Department. Their combined presence on the scene underscored the dedication and coordinated response necessary to address such maritime emergencies effectively.
This incident serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by sailors navigating the coastal waters in the region. Thanks to the quick and coordinated actions of various agencies, a potentially bad situation was averted, safeguarding the lives of all individuals involved.