Cetus-Narwhal

The DIMAR activated search and rescue protocols after a boatswain fell into a cargo hold of the 'Cetus Narwhal' near Buenaventura on Jan 27, 2026, while the ship was sailing 30 nautical miles off the coast. The Colombian Maritime Authority (DIMAR) was alerted through the Maritime Traffic Control and Surveillance Station of the Buenaventura Port Authority, and immediately activated the corresponding communication and coordination protocols. In coordination with the Pacific Naval Force, DIMAR activated the SAR procedure, initially deploying a Coast Guard Rapid Reaction Unit to address the emergency. Due to the weather conditions in the area, it was not possible to evacuate the crew member by sea. Therefore, air support was requested from the Pacific Naval Air Group, and the victim was picked by a helicopter up approximately 15 nautical miles east of the Buenaventura sea buoy. He was transferred to the facilities of the 2nd Marine Infantry Brigade in Buenaventura and then to a medical center in the city, where his death was confirmed. The vessel returned and anchored in the port of Buenaventura so that the Colombian Maritime Authority could carry out the corresponding procedures. The General Maritime Directorate initiated the appropriate legal process to determine the circumstances of the incident, including the manner, time, and location, as well as any potential liabilities. The ship, which had sailed from Buenaventura on Jan 24, remained anchored in pos. 03° 49' N 077° 11' W as of Jan 28.