Radio New Zealand International reported that the captain of the MV Carrie said his vessel was returning to Madang from Basamuk Port on Wednesday when it sighted a small boat with passengers desperately signalling for help.
Charles Buai told The National newspaper the swell was about 4m high and the boat had run out of fuel.
On Sunday, the same ferry rescued two banana boats carrying soccer players in Astrolabe Bay, who were also out of fuel.
Buai said he was calling on the Madang government to spread safety awareness for small craft travelling in local waters.
