Ogilvy PR is representing the Migrant Offshore Aid Station, which is bankrolled by high-risk insurer Tangiers Group, for immigration, maritime and foreign relations matters.

Coordinated from the Mediterranean island of Malta, MOAS' 130-ft. Phoenix I ship sails in search of boats in distress.

More than 500 migrants largely from Africa perished last year on route to Europe in search of political asylum or economic opportunity.

Phoenix carries food, water, medical supplies, life vests and jackets for distribution to the needy.

If a migrant-laden boat is in danger of sinking, the crew will attempt to stabilize the board until authorities arrive.

MOAS says its aim is to mitigate loss of life at sea, and not to act as a migrant ferry. It also supports non-migrant ships at risk. The sailing season runs from July through October.

Tangiers is a provider of specialist insurance for conflict zones, remote destinations and general travel. It boasts up-to-date intelligence on dangerous places written by people who've been there.

Gordon Taylor, former press secretary to Louisiana Republican Congressman Jimmy Hayes and chief of staff Pelican State Democrat Chris John; and Tony Bullock, one-time chief of staff to New York Sen. Daniel Patrick Moynihan, handle MOAS' business.