Guests on Princess Cruises’ Pacific Princess who were coming to the conclusion of a week-long cruise around the British Isles on Saturday had a bit more in the way of excitement than anticipated while sailing in the North Sea.
After a distress flare was spotted by the bridge, the ship’s captain turned the vessel around and set a course toward the flare.
Upon arrival at about 6:30 p.m., Pacific Princess came alongside a lifeboat holding three fishermen. Their fishing vessel had capsized and sunk four hours earlier about 25 miles off the coast of Norwich, UK.
The ship's passengers lined the railings as the rescue unfolded and then clapped as the trio evacuated the raft and were brought onboard the cruise ship.
Unfortunately, two other fishermen from the same fishing vessel went into the water (hours before the cruise ship was in the area) and are still missing. The UK’s Coast Guard was searching for the men.
Rescue helicopters and other vessels were also helping with the search. Authorities released Pacific Princess to continue its voyage to Dover.
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