Carnival Cruise Line’s Carnival Splendor, en route from Sydney to Vanuatu and New Caledonia, launched a dramatic mid‑voyage rescue on Thursday, May 22, 2025. When alerted by the Nouméa Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre, the 113,573‑ton ship altered course and, after five hours, located a disabled catamaran roughly 170–200 nautical miles south of New Caledonia .
Onboard were two married couples—Australians “Dusty and Helena” (popular for their YouTube channel Sailing Barking Cat), as well as German and Italian friends—accompanied by three dogs: French bulldogs Juno and Potato, and Wiggle the mini-husky . The catamaran had suffered engine failure and a broken mast amid a violent storm with 30–40 knot winds and 4–5 m swells .
Carnival Splendor’s captain skillfully maneuvered beside the small craft in rough seas. Crew members first evacuated the dogs, then the humans via rope ladder. Once aboard, the survivors were provided with cabins, food, water, medical attention—and even invited to dine with the captain . The dogs quickly became crew favorites, enjoying treats and playing in a kiddie splash zone .
The rescue did not delay the cruise’s itinerary, which continued on schedule with planned calls at Mystery Island and Nouméa .
This heartwarming incident highlights Carnival’s commitment to maritime rescue obligations and quick coordination—ensuring the safety of all involved.
