Cruise Ship out of Galveston Rescues Stranded Sailor and Cat at sea

GALVESTON, Texas (KTRK) -- What began as a routine cruise departure turned into an unexpected rescue at sea when a Carnival ship came across a stranded sailor and his cat in the gulf.

Passengers aboard the Carnival Legend, which departed from Galveston on Tuesday, witnessed the dramatic scene unfold during the ship's first night at sea.

Arrin Myers, a passenger on board, said the situation quickly drew attention.

"We see that it's a sailboat, and they have this light on it, and we're like, 'What is happening?'" Myers said.

Around 8 p.m., the ship's crew announced over the loudspeaker that a vessel in distress had been spotted and instructed passengers to remain in their cabins.

Carnival Cruise Line confirmed that the ship diverted to assist the stranded sailor. Both the man and his cat, named Dahlia, were safely brought aboard.

Myers said the mood on the ship shifted as passengers waited for updates.

"The Lido deck was completely empty, and for that time of night it's usually full of people. They had security at all the doors," she said, adding the rescue operation lasted about two to three hours.

Carnival said the sailor did not appear to be injured, though it remains unclear how long he had been adrift. Video released by the cruise line showed Dahlia safe and in good condition after the rescue.

"It was crazy, wild, fun, because we were able to safely rescue them," Myers said. "I think the vibe on board would've been different if it wasn't successful."

The rescued sailor has since disembarked from the ship, according to Carnival.

After the rescue, the cruise resumed its scheduled itinerary. Myers said passengers are now continuing their trip, with stops including Jamaica and the Cayman Islands.