In the late 1970s, our volleyball team from Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic school traveled to St. Croix to compete in the inter-island school competitions. ⛹🏼‍♀️

I can’t recall if we won or lost, but for many of us, it was our first trip to St. Croix and our first time on the seaplane.

Seaplane Crashes

In the summer of 1978, I remember reading about the crash of one of those seaplanes.

The left engine died, leaving the captain no option but to make an emergency landing in the sea.  

They made a sea landing close to Watergate Villas.

Apparently, it had just taken off from their ramp in town when it suddenly lost power.   Fortunately, none of the eleven passengers on board were seriously injured.

Pilot lands Seaplane Safely

The Air Force pilot, Robert W. Johnson was the hero that day. He was praised by everyone for handling the emergency landing so well.

After all the passengers were safely ashore, he went back into the plane to retrieve all the handbags and luggage left behind.

The residents at Watergate Villas also made a gallant effort to help.  

They raced down the thorny hillside to assist the frightened passengers.

Ever since reading about this accident, I preferred to play against any volleyball team from St. John or Tortola.  

This way, I wouldn’t have to travel on a seaplane again. 🛥