Courageous Chinese Crew Wins Inmarsat-sponsored Award

A cargo vessel operated by China Navigation Company helped rescue 246 people & wins a Lloyd's List Global Award sponsored by Inmarsat.

The Amver Assisted Rescue at Sea Award was presented by President of Inmarsat Maritime, Frank Coles, to Captain Vimar Vidanagamage, representing the China Navigation Company, at a ceremony in London on 26 September 2012.

The Chinese ship MV Kwangtung, was diverted using the Amver system to save the lives of passengers from the ferry Rabaul Queen which sank in the Solomon Sea in early February and was at the centre of a search and rescue operation that lasted two days.

The awards judges noted that the officers and crew of the general cargo vessel "displayed impeccable seamanship and courage" which rightly won them much praise in the aftermath of a tragedy which claimed many lives.

Amver is a computer-based voluntary reporting system sponsored by the US Coastguard, which often uses Inmarsat services to help it divert vessels to the aid of ships in difficulties.

"Our congratulations go to the courage of all those involved in this prolonged rescue," said Peter Blackhurst, Inmarsat head of maritime safety.