Máximo Napa Castro, a 61-year-old Peruvian fisherman, was lost at sea for 95 days, relying on his faith and hope to survive until he was rescued. During this harrowing ordeal, he survived without food or water by consuming cockroaches, birds, and eventually a turtle, whose blood he drank to quench his thirst.
Throughout his time at sea, Mr. Napa Castro prayed to God, expressing both anger and desperation. He recalled moments of questioning his fate, wondering who would come to save him, and ultimately asking for forgiveness. His faith led him to believe that help would arrive, and on March 12, he was spotted by the crew of an Ecuadorean tuna boat hundreds of miles off the coast of Peru.
Mr. Napa Castro had embarked on his journey on December 7, intending to catch fish roe and had packed enough provisions for a month. However, after just 13 days, his boat's engine failed, leaving him stranded. He rationed his limited food supplies and collected rainwater to drink, but faced days without any sustenance. Despite the dire circumstances, he remained hopeful for his family's sake.
His daughter, Ines Napa Torres, reported that local fishermen searched for her father, and the family urged authorities to initiate an aerial search. Unfortunately, his boat lacked a radio beacon, complicating the search efforts. Nevertheless, the family maintained their faith that he would be found.
Upon being rescued, Mr. Napa Castro was airlifted to a Peruvian Coast Guard vessel for medical attention, where he was treated for dehydration and sunburn. His daughter described his survival as a “miracle.” Upon returning to Peru, he was greeted by his brother, and the emotional reunion was captured on video.
Mr. Napa Castro expressed his relief and joy, stating that he had clung to thoughts of his family during his ordeal. He looked forward to enjoying traditional home-cooked meals upon his return. A celebration was held in his honor, where friends and family presented him with a cake decorated with symbols of his survival.
Elena Castro, his mother, shared her relief and gratitude, having prayed for her son's safe return. She acknowledged the unwavering faith of her daughters, who believed he would come back home.