How did Francesco Galia die?

Francesco Galia, a ship's pilot, likely died from a cardiac event that caused him to fall into the Humber Estuary.

How long was Francesco Galia in the water?

Francesco Galia was in the water for 40 minutes before being rescued by an RNLI lifeboat.

What was Francesco Galia's background?

Francesco Galia was a 67-year-old ship's pilot who had spent his life at sea, travelled the world extensively, and considered the UK his home.

Home / Disasters and Accidents / Pilot's Nephew Mourns 'Universally Loved' Seafarer Lost at Sea

Pilot's Nephew Mourns 'Universally Loved' Seafarer Lost at Sea

24 Jan

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Summary

A ship's pilot died after falling into the Humber Estuary, possibly from a cardiac event.
The pilot was in the sea for 40 minutes before being rescued, significantly reducing survival chances.
His nephew described him as a globally travelled man, universally loved and fondly remembered.

Pilot's Nephew Mourns 'Universally Loved' Seafarer Lost at Sea

Francesco Galia, a 67-year-old ship's pilot, tragically died after falling into the Humber Estuary on January 8, 2023. His nephew believes Galia experienced a cardiac event, causing him to lose his grip on a ladder and fall into the water.

Rescued after 40 minutes by the RNLI, Galia's chances of survival were significantly reduced because the overboard recovery platform could not be deployed. He had spent his entire adult life at sea, traveling the globe extensively.

Galia was a passionate seafarer, having previously captained ships. His family originates from Genoa, Italy, but he chose to make his home in the UK after falling in love with the British Isles' culture.