The ocean beneath them was constantly moving.

Large waves could crash against the stern of the tanker, sending spray over the men and soaking their clothing.

Strong winds made their exposed position even more dangerous.

During the day, they faced the heat and intense sunlight.

At night, temperatures could fall dramatically, leaving them cold and exhausted.

There was nowhere to hide.

There was nowhere comfortable to sit.

And there was no safe place to sleep.

A sudden movement, loss of grip or powerful wave could have sent one of them into the ocean.

Hunger and Dehydration Became a Battle

Surviving eleven days in such a position would have been difficult even with an adequate supply of food and water.

The men reportedly had very limited supplies.

Whatever food and water they managed to bring with them would eventually have run out.

Dehydration would have weakened their bodies.

Hunger would have made it increasingly difficult to maintain strength.