After being blown off course by a storm, a fisherman survived three months at sea by eating turtles, birds, and cockroaches.
A fisherman named Maximo Napa Castro had an incredible story of survival after he was lost at sea for three months.
His journey began when he set out for a two-week fishing trip from the town of Marcona in Peru.
However, a strong storm changed everything.
The fisherman being blown off course by a storm
On December 7, 2024, Castro started his fishing adventure. Just ten days into his trip, a terrible storm hit.
The storm pushed him far off course, leaving him stranded in the Pacific Ocean.
Castro had limited supplies on his boat, and panic set in for both him and his family.
As days turned into weeks, Castro’s family grew worried. They began to search for him but faced the harsh reality that he might not be alive.
Despite the efforts of Peru’s maritime patrols, they could not find him. His family held on to hope, praying for his safe return.
Fisherman survives three months adrift at sea by sustaining himself on turtles, birds, and cockroaches
Castro spent a total of 95 days lost at sea. During this time, he faced extreme challenges. He was alone and had to rely on his skills to survive.
Castro collected rainwater to drink, which was crucial for his survival. He also had to find food in the ocean.
To stay alive, Castro ate whatever he could find. He caught birds and cockroaches to fill his stomach.
At one point, he even had to eat sea turtles. His hunger was overwhelming, especially during the last 15 days, when he had no food at all.
He described the struggle to keep going, even when things seemed hopeless.
He was finally rescued after being lost at sea for 3 months
Finally, on March 12, 2025, Castro was found by an Ecuadorian fishing patrol. They discovered him 680 miles from the coast.
Although he was alive, he was in critical condition and very dehydrated. The rescue team took him to safety, where he received medical attention.
After his rescue, Castro was taken to Paita for a medical check-up. He was then flown to Lima.
At the airport, he was reunited with his daughter, Ines. She greeted him with joy and brought a bottle of pisco, Peru’s national drink, to celebrate.
Back in Castro’s hometown of San Andres, the community was thrilled about his return. They decorated the streets and planned a celebration.
Castro’s niece, Leyla, shared that they wanted to celebrate his birthday, which he spent lost at sea. The family felt grateful that he was back safe and sound.
Reflecting on his experience
During his time lost at sea, Castro often thought about his mother and his young granddaughter.
These thoughts kept him strong and hopeful. He expressed gratitude for being given a second chance at life.
The fisherman said: “I thought about my mother every day. I’m thankful to God for giving me a second chance.”
