A cruise ship visitor fell into the sea while trying to tie her shoes on the edge of St. Croix’s pier but was quickly rescued by fast-acting government employees, officials said.
The Oceania Nautica passenger became dizzy after sitting down on the edge of the pier to tie her laces around noon Monday — and fell into the water, according to the Virgin Islands Port Authority.
Waynia Charles, who manages operations at the Ann E. Abramson Marine Facility, and VI Police Department Officer Karima Liburd, dove in after her and, with the help of a floatation ring, were able to rescue the woman without injury, Port Authority said. Dock Master Devante Edwards radioed nearby vessels for assistance, and the SV Juliet responded to the call, arriving swiftly with a dinghy.
VIPA Executive Director Carlton Dowe commended Chief Wharfinger Charles and Officer Liburd for their heroism.
The passenger was transported to the Juan F. Luis Hospital where she was treated and later released. The Nautica departed St. Croix at 5 p.m. Monday and the Department of Tourism helped arrange hotel accommodations for the traveler and her companion following her discharge from the hospital.
