ISLAMABAD (PEN) : A Peruvian fisherman, Maximo Napa, has been rescued after spending an astonishing 95 days stranded at sea. The 60-year-old, who set out from Marcona, a coastal town in southern Peru, in early December, was found 680 miles off the coast of Ecuador by a fishing patrol on Wednesday. Napa survived in the vast Pacific Ocean by relying on a meager diet of sea turtles, birds, and insects.
The Ill-Fated Journey
Napa embarked on a fishing trip on December 7, with enough supplies for a two-week journey. However, his plans went awry when a severe storm hit, causing his boat to drift far off course. Despite his family’s efforts to locate him and search missions by Peru’s maritime patrols, Napa’s whereabouts remained unknown for over three months.
His mother, Elena Castro, was among the family members who struggled with the uncertainty of his fate. Although hope remained strong among some relatives, Elena admitted that her faith was wavering as the search dragged on. “I told the Lord, ‘Whether he’s alive or dead, just bring him back to me, even if it’s just to see him,'” she shared with TV Peru. In contrast, her daughters continued to assure her that Napa would return safely.
A Desperate Struggle for Survival
During his long ordeal, Napa faced extreme conditions. He battled severe dehydration and hunger, surviving by collecting rainwater and eating whatever he could catch, including birds and sea turtles. Napa revealed that in the final 15 days of his ordeal, he went without food, relying solely on the rainwater for hydration.
Reflecting on his survival, Napa said, “I did not want to die. I thought about my family, especially my two-month-old granddaughter. That kept me going.” His reunion with his brother in Paita, near the Peru-Ecuador border, marked an emotional moment for the family, who had feared the worst.
Return to Family and Medical Care
Following his rescue, Napa was immediately taken to Paita for medical treatment, where he was examined for signs of dehydration and malnutrition. His recovery journey continues, with plans for him to travel to Lima to reunite with the rest of his family.
“I’m thankful to God for giving me a second chance,” Napa said after the harrowing experience. His survival against all odds has been a beacon of hope and a testament to human resilience in the face of unimaginable adversity.
