Cargo Ship Stuck In Delaware River Since April Returns To Sea
By Mike DeNardo
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- A cargo ship detained in the Delaware River since April is finally returning to sea.
A tug pulled the Nicolina away from her dock at the Navy Yard just after 3:30 p.m. ending a seven-month odyssey in the Delaware.
Back in April the ship was detained by the Coast Guard for repairs, but the owner couldn't afford them. The crew couldn't leave the ship because their visas expired. Father Peter Stube, executive director of the Seaman's Church Institute, helped the Filipino crew keep in touch with relatives.
"We provided telephone cards, telephones and hot spots so that they could talk to their families on Skype," said Father Stube.
A new owner bought the ship last month, renamed it, repaired it, and brought in a new crew of 21, including Captain Eric Pabelico.
"Together with my crew we're all happy that we have done all this job here. And we have made the vessel ready to sail out safely," said Captain Pabelico.
The Nicolina is now on its way to the Bahamas.
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