The Naval Diving Unit of the Republic of Singapore Navy was assigned to conduct the underwater search for the passengers in the two cabins which had plunged into the sea.

The first Bell 212 Twin-Huey Search and rescue helicopter from the squadron (call sign Rescue One Zero) was piloted by Lieutenant Kao Yit Chee, fitted with floodlights, approached the first stranded cabin and despite the strong winds and danger, the winch operator – Staff Sergeant Ramasamy Veerappan winched down the winchman – Lance Corporal Phua Kim Hai.

The riskiest rescues were undertaken by Royal Australian Navy Lieutenant Geoff Ledger,[1] who was on loan to RSAF to help train helicopter pilots.

Despite the windy condition encountered above the harbour and the strong downwash of the rescue helicopter's main rotors, he managed to pilot the second Bell 212 rescue helicopter close above the cars to allow winchman Lance Corporal Selvanathan Selvarajoo to enter two cabins hanging only by their towline.

The report blamed the collision on the negligence of several parties, including the master, chief officer, and pilot of the Eniwetok.