Cyprus authorities say a search in waters between the east Mediterranean island nation and Lebanon for more possible survivors from a capsized boat has been unsuccessful.

The search was mounted after a Syrian man was airlifted to a Cyprus hospital Thursday when the U.S.-flagged merchant ship Safmarine Nimba plucked him from stormy seas some 17 miles off Cyprus’ southeastern coast.

The Syrian man said he was among seven other people aboard a small boat that set sail from Lebanon on Dec. 21. But the boat capsized two days later due to stormy weather.

Cyprus’ Joint Rescue Coordination Center said a search helicopter Friday failed to locate anyone. The center said it’s in touch with vessels in the area to be on the lookout for any survivors.