The first boat chartered by the Red Cross from the Libyan capital Tripoli has arrived in Benghazi. Many on board were eager to dock in the port city and reunite with family members.

When Libya’s conflict started in February, many were caught off guard.

Relatives away from home as warring broke out, got stuck at destination points, literally trapped in remote cities unable to return to their families all these long months.

That is, until the Red Cross chartered this ferry, packed with hundreds of Libyans en route to rejoining loved ones.

"As this first ever boat arrives from Tripoli to Benghazi, there is tremendous excitement, tremendous anticipation and even some speculation that Gaddafi loyalist forces may be onboard."

The Red Cross coordinated the charter, negotiating with both Gaddafi's government and the opposition leaders. The aim was to provide relief.

Deba Fakhr, Spokeswoman, Int'l Red Cross, said, "These families were not even able to get in touch with each other because there are no phones, no Internet, nothing is available so they are fully separated."

As loved ones and friends came off the boat, there was much gladness. Some were overwhelmed with emotion as they reunited. Others, who had feared the worst for family members, anticipated the reunion.

Evacuee, Benghazi, said, "We thought they were dead until maybe a month ago one of them was shown on the Libyan TV."

As they headed home, tales of the situation in the Gaddafi controlled enclave of Tripoli unfolded.

Evacuee, Benghazi, said, "On every street people with weapons they check you – your mobile, your laptop, and they ask you where you’re going and the main thing they want to know is where you are from."

Red Cross representatives say they anticipate sending vessels back and forth between Tripoli and Benghazi in the coming week, allowing war fatigued Libyans to return home.

"After months of warring, the Libyan people are relieved to have one day of happiness. Stephanie Freid, CCTV, Benghazi."

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