Alec Hogg: Captain Courageous shows honour still exists.

A heart-warming story .

Italian maritime honour was restored yesterday when ferry captain Argilio Giacomazzi (right) showed his obedience to ancient naval codes. A full 36 hours after sounding the alarm in a disaster that killed ten, Captain Courageous Giacomazzi was the last to leave the sinking Noman Atlantic.

His courage is in stark contrast to recent episodes. In 2012 another Italian, captain Francesco Schettino, scarpered when cruise liner Costa Concordia literally hit the rocks. He is facing manslaughter charges after 32 lives were lost.

More recently Captain Lee Joon-soek attracted global infamy when his ferry sank. He was one of the first to jump ship, leaving hundreds of children below deck. The Korean Coward was sentenced to 36 years in prison.

South Africans with long memories may recall a similar incident 23 years ago when the cruise liner Oceanos sank between East London and Durban. Captain Yiannis Avranas and his crew left hundreds of passengers on the sinking liner. His only punishment was being lampooned by comedians.

It’s nice to see Avranas is not the norm. Those with honour in the mould of the RMS Titanic’s Captain Edward Smith, still exist. Not just at sea.

@alechogg must say i would really appreciate it if SA capt of the ship NO 1 can depart early ala COncordia! Dont think SA can afford waiting

— Taxpayer (@Taxscheme101) December 30, 2014