Baltimore Pirates Step Out of Character to Aid Ship in Distress

BALTIMORE, MD — A boatload of sailors stranded near the Key Bridge is receiving support from unlikely sources.

Arriving in the Port of Baltimore in late September, the Newlead Granadino cargo ship was plagued with problems and detained by the Coast Guard for safety reasons.

Although the Newlead Granadino has engine trouble, its Malta-based parent company is not stepping in because it is in dire financial straits, according to ABC 2 News, which reported crew members have not been paid in five months. Many hailed from the Philippines.

Because the ship's sailors lack visas, they can't come ashore and are stuck aboard the ship without supplies, Fox 45 reported.

In the meantime, the Urban Pirates — theatrical mariners out of Fells Point who offer entertaining rides on their ship— heard of the sailors' plight and took action.

The group "decided to do something that Pirates aren't usually known for...giving back," the pirates said on their Facebook page. Restaurants from Baltimore donated food, which the pirate troupe took over to the Newlead Granadino on their pirate ship.

The pirates plan to continue delivering donations from area eateries each Tuesday.

Those who would like to donate can email admin@urbanpirates.com. To donate money, contact Baltimore@seafarers.org.

Still via ABC 2 News/Youtube.