Prince William Rescues Stranded Crew Members From Irish Sea

Following a fatal ship accident, the British owned vessel, Swanland, received a rescue of royal measure.

Prince William co-piloted a Sea King helicopter that rescued two injured crew members who were found clinging to lifeboats in the water after the Swanland hit a huge wave that ruptured its hull.

Another crew member was found in the water a bit later, but was confirmed dead according to the Maritime and Coastguard Agency.

The Swanland, a 265 foot vessel, was transporting 3,000 tons of limestone from Colwyn Bay to Cowes. The crew sent out a distress signal around 2:00 am from the Irish Sea after the wave hit.

Eight people, all Russians, were on board at the time and only three have been recovered. The two men that were recovered by Prince William’s chopper were taken to the hospital with no signs of injury, just shock. A search is underway for the remaining five.

Prince William works at the Royal Air Force Valley and has been known to step into the pilot’s seat from time to time.

This is not the first time the Swanland suffered failure on the sea. In August 2010, the vessel suffered engine failure in high winds and nearly crashed on the rocks off Cornwall in southwest England. However, despite these signs of failure, the vessel was still put out to work.

Transporting goods on the sea is a dangerous task and crew members are constantly risking their lives doing such a job.

If you or anyone you know has been injured in a vessel mishap, contact the attorneys at V&B for free information and a free evaluation by calling our toll-free number 888-473-1258.