Illuminating flare aids boat breakdown
17/05/2023
An illuminating flare was used by South African marine rescue personnel to help recover a yacht with rudder failure.
The flare was used to light the water at night so the boat could be safely docked.
One day in late April, NSRI Strandfontein received a request for assistance from a sailing yacht in False Bay. It had suffered rudder failure while heading towards Simonstown.
The yacht crew had rigged a temporary solution and were happy to sail on Simonstown, but NSRI Strandfontein duty controllers asked the skipper if they could tow the yacht to save time and help sharpen their towing techniques.
NSRI Strandfontein crews were activated and the NSRI rescue craft Grand West CSI was launched.
On arrival at the scene, just South of Seal Island, a towline was rigged. The yacht was towed to Simonstown without incident.
This incident provided an opportunity for NSRI volunteers to practice their helmsmanship, night manoeuvres and towing skills. They were also able to collaborate with Telkom Maritime Radio Services, Transnet National Port Authority, and maritime authorities.
The illuminating flare was deployed at NSRI Strandfontein rescue station to light the area.
NSRI Strandfontein station commander Nicolette Whitehead thanked the skipper and crew for their cooperation and trust in its services.
