More Terrifying Discoveries

It seemed like the bad news would not stop coming for Ashcraft. Not only was she alone and mastless, but the engine, navigation system, emergency positioning device, and radios had all gone out in the storm. Thankfully, Ashcraft’s many hours training on the ocean quickly kicked in, and she got to work.

First, Ashcraft made a makeshift sail using a broken pole and a storm jib using other debris. Next, she began pumping water out of the ship by hand. Without devices or others to help her, the young woman would need to rely on every last skill and muscle she had to survive. Still, through it all, Ashcraft never gave up hope.