RNZAF Poseidon crew successfully find boat and six people overdue in Fiji

The Poseidon crew had been about to carry out a fishery patrol in Fiji when the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre Fiji requested help in the search for the boat. 

The six people had left Namuka Island for Fulaga in the Lau Group on Thursday morning but failed to reach their destination.

The initial search was carried out by local vessels before a chartered local aircraft and the RNZAF joined the search on Friday.

The Poseidon crew carried out a radar and visual search of the area before, in fading light, they found the vessel at 5.30pm, 14.6 nautical miles southwest of Vanuavatu.

They radioed the Republic of Fiji Navy Ship Savenaca, which was operating near the search area and sailed to rescue the group in testing weather conditions shortly after 8pm. 

The six people were taken to Suva for medical assessment before being reunited with their families and loved ones.

No. 5 Squadron tactical coordinator and crew member, Flight Lieutenant Holly Graham, said they were preparing for the planned fishery patrol when they were re-tasked.

“We quickly re-planned and headed out to the search area. The weather was challenging with strong winds and 3.5m swells creating salt spray which decreased visibility,” she said.

They spotted the boat after six hours of searching, and as the sea was rough they remained overhead until the Fijian Navy arrived.

“It was a long day, but the crew was delighted with the outcome. Our thanks to all who assisted, particularly the crew of RFNS Savenaca. Our best wishes to the survivors and their families.”