When Irma hit, the Carnival Elation ship was in the middle of her scheduled dry dock in Freeport.
In order to safely navigate the hurricane, the Carnival vessel had to be floated out of dry dock until it was safe to return.
When the weather had subsided to the point that Carnival Elation could return on Sunday, September 10, the ship picked up on a distress signal.
A U.S. citizen had been forced to abandon his boat during the storm. His vessel sank, leaving him stranded in a lifeboat. Carnival Elation responded to the distress call despite heavy swells, strong winds and darkness. The sailor was brought safely onboard and provided with water, food and medical attention.