It is a perfect Caribbean day. Sunny, blue sky, some nice white clouds. You like to enjoy a vacation day at Lime Cay. A very strong wind is blowing through the bay. Very strong wind, called Christmas winds. They will cause a tragedy.
According to police reports, a tragedy unfolded yesterday morning after a boat left Port Royal and headed for Maiden Cay, a popular beach and recreational spot. 13 people were aboard. Two women died in the mishap. The boat capsized when it encountered high winds and rough waters. The Jamaican newspaper OBSERVER reported in detail on the avoidable tragedy and gave an insight.
I think that the newspaper reports very benevolently about the capitain and also the police seems to be very understanding based on the newspaper report.
I can’t understand that.
It was an unnecessary and avoidable death of two visitors who have entrusted their lives to the boatman.
Has the captain lived up to this responsibility?
I don’t think so.
Why?
- First of all: There was a for small craft advisory in place issued by the Jamaican Meteorological Service. An official warning about the harsh conditions: wave prediction up to 3 meters, wind up to 35 knots.
- Second: Based on the remarks of the captain the boat had no license.
- Third: Captain claims he has arthritis and couldn’t bail out the water.
I ask myself:
Why is an unlicensed small boat going out with a handicapped captain in conditions not for such type of boat?
Need or Greed?
Both is bad to make a good decision.
