Simon Bugeja speaks on the Simshar ordeal

Simon Bugeja, the only survivor of the sinking of the Simshar says in an interview to be published tomorrow (Tuesday) that it was only concern for his son which kept him alive.

“Theo cried for food and water. What kept me alive was my effort to distract my son’s attention from his hunger pangs and thirst. I tell him mummy would come to save us. The poor boy dreamt he was eating,” he says.

In the interview, to be published in The Times, Mr Bugeja also explains how an explosion followed by a fierce fire prevented the crew from going to the bridge and the back of the boat, where the safety equipment was. He also describes the painful ordeal of the days and nights in the sea, clinging to hope of rescue.