The MV Oleander picked up four survivors after they abandoned a yacht - one of several maritime emergencies caused by the gales affecting the Island.Bermuda Maritime Operations Centre said that at about 3.30pm yesterday, the crew of M/v Oleander was involved in the successful recovery of four survivors from the 46ft sailing vessel ‘Elle’ a NARC rally participant, located approximately 200 miles northwest of Bermuda.“The captain of S/v Elle decided to abandon their vessel having encountered steering failure and subsequent injury to a crew member (Bruised Ribs) in 30 to 35 knot winds with seas ranging from 20ft to 30ft. M/v Oleander on route from New Jersey to Bermuda was diverted to the distress position and has since arrived into Hamilton harbour this morning where the crew members were landed ashore. One of the survivors wished to express his gratitude for the professionalism shown by the Captain and crew of the Oleander during the rescue operation.”In another rescue operation, at 12.20pm yesterday the cable ship ‘Ocean’ was diverted to a position 550 miles southwest of Bermuda to recover three crew members from sailing vessel ‘Spring Moon’ - Cable ship ‘Ocean’ is due to disembark the three survivors at the east end of Bermuda tomorrow.And in another incident, early this morning, another NARC Rally participant, 49ft S/v Riot suffered steering failure on final approach to St George’s Harbour and issued a distress call.The Bermuda Maritime Operations Centre tasked the Pilot boat ‘St George’s and tug ‘Powerful’ to assist the vessel with winds averaging 30-35 knots during the rescue operation and attempts being made to keep the sailing vessel clear of the reef structure. S/v Riot with 6 persons on-board was safely guided into St George’s Harbour a short while later.”Bermuda Maritime Operations Centre was also contacted this morning by cruise ship ‘Explorer of the Seas’ who reported the need to bring one person ashore due to medical concerns. The patient was safely taken ashore to an awaiting ambulance following ships arrival at King’s Wharf.Bermuda Maritime Operations Centre is also in contact with a number of sailing vessels presently offshore that have suffered rigging failure or are hove to due to present weather conditions.