Norman Rautenbach, NSRI Richards Bay station commander, said: At 16h59, Monday, 26 October. NSRI Richards Bay duty crew were activated following a request for assistance from a solo sailor reporting mechanical issues to his 12 meter sailing yacht and requiring a tow.
The Swedish sailor had reached out to OSASA (Ocean Sailing Association of South Africa) requesting assistance and OSASA alerted NSRI Richards Bay.
He was 8 nautical miles offshore of St Lucia at the time with at least 7 sailing yachts grouped together sailing Southwards towards Richards Bay and concerns were raised by his fellow yachtsmen due to strong South Westerly winds forecast.
The sailor used Starlink communications to raise the alarm.
Our duty crew responded to our NSRI Richards Bay station 19 rescue base where the NSRI rescue craft Ocean Guardian was launched prepared for a lengthy operation.
We rendezvoused with the casualty sailing yacht offshore of St Lucia finding the solo skipper safe but unable to continue on his voyage towards Richards Bay hampered by mechanical issues disabling his progress.
A towline was established and during towing efforts towards Richards Bay we were met by a strong South Westerly buster slowing the progress of the tow.
After an hour of strong winds we reached Richards Bay where the wind conditions subsided.
We were accompanied by 2 fellow sailing yachts where, on reaching Richards Bay, in cooperation with TNPA (Transnet National Ports Authority) Port of Richards Bay Port Control, negotiation heavy marine traffic in and out of the Port, the sailing was brought safely to a berth at the small craft international marina without incident and no further assistance was required.
Communications were assisted by Telkom Maritime Radio Services.
The operation completed in the early hours of Tuesday morning.
Ladybird
Fun South African Fact: The South African flag was used for the first time on Freedom Day 1994.