The yacht carrying three New Zealanders who were seriously injured after a being hit by a broken mast, next to to the Australian cruise ship that is providing assistance. Photo: Supplied / Chris Lynch Media
Three New Zealanders on board a yacht are seriously injured after being hit by a broken mast off the coast of Fiji, with one now receiving medical attention on a cruise ship.
The Rescue Co-ordination Centre (RCC) in Fiji said the crew sent a mayday distress call near Nadi at around 9pm last night.
"There are 3 people on board, all New Zealanders," a spokesperson said.
"One of the yacht's mast broke and the crew got hit by it."
The Australian cruise ship Pacific Explorer diverted its route to help the yacht last night.
Maritime New Zealand's Rescue Co-ordination Centre said one person was transferred to the cruise for medical treatment, but more help would be needed.
"Two further support vessels are expected later today, one at about midday and another at 4pm," a spokesperson said.
"Support from the vessels is needed to assist the other people on-board the yacht as, due to conditions and the comparative size of the Pacific Explorer, assisting the remaining people on-board the yacht isn't possible."
A P and O Cruises spokesperson said "Continuing our long-standing practice of assisting mariners at sea, we can confirm Pacific Explorer supported the rescue of a distressed yacht early this morning south-west of Nadi (Fiji).
"We'd like to take this opportunity to thank our crew, led by Captain Alan Nixon, for their immense efforts in very poor conditions, as well as our guests onboard for their understanding.
"We continue to work closely with RCC Fiji and Maritime New Zealand's Rescue Coordination Centre during this time."
