NATIONAL Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) Richards Bay duty crew were on Monday activated following a request for assistance from a solo sailor reporting mechanical issues offshore of St Lucia.

Norman Rautenbach, NSRI Richards Bay station commander, said the Swedish sailor had reached out to Ocean Sailing Association of South Africa (OSASA) requesting assistance which then alerted NSRI Richards Bay.

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“He was eight nautical miles offshore of St Lucia at the time, with at least seven yachts grouped together sailing southwards towards Richards Bay. Concerns were raised by his fellow yachtsmen due to strong south-westerly winds forecast,” said Rautenbach.

“Our duty crew responded to the Station 19 base where the NSRI rescue craft Ocean Guardian was prepared for the operation.”

Rautenbach said they rendezvoused with the casualty yacht, finding the solo skipper safe but hampered by mechanical issues and unable to continue on his voyage.

“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 conditions subsided,” said Rautenbach.

“ We were accompanied by two fellow sailing yachts where, on reaching Richards Bay, the vessel was brought safely to a berth at the Small Craft International Marina.”

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