WATCH : NSRI Gqeberha assist 2 capsized boats at a Fish Derby at Noordhoek

NSRI Gqeberha responded to two separate incidents over the past weekend during a fishing derby, at Noordhoek ski-boat club. On Sunday, 30th of April, a boat carrying four crewmen capsized while exiting from the Noordhoek ski-boat club. Fortunately, all four men were able to climb onto the upturned hull of the ski-boat in the channel after being capsized by a wave.

It appears that kill switch may have disconnected when they were thrown across the boat deck but while attempting to re-start the motors a wave breached causing the boat to capsize.

NSRI Gqeberha crew, that had towed and NSRI rescue craft to stand by on a nearby beach, witnessed the incident unfolding and immediately launched.

Arriving at the scene two casualty crewmen were transferred onto the NSRI rescue craft.

NSRI Gqeberha duty crew launched the NSRI rescue craft JLT Rescuer at the NSRI Gqeberha rescue station and arrived on the scene, transferring the remaining two men onto the NSRI rescue craft.

All 4 casualty crewmen were then transferred onto a fellow fishing ski boat and brought to shore without incident. Only one man sustained minor cuts and bruises, but all were safe and sound.

The second incident occurred on Monday, 1st of May, when a boat with three men on board capsized while returning from sea. Thankfully, all three men were able to swim ashore without assistance and were not injured.

Local surfers also intervened to help the 3 men out of the water.

An NSRI rescue tractor was dispatched to assist in the recovery of the capsized boat that was recovered off the beach onto the owners trailer.

We urge all seafarers to exercise caution while out at sea, to ensure the safety of themselves and their passengers. The NSRI is always on standby to provide assistance in emergency situations, and we encourage everyone to make use of our services whenever needed. Stay safe on the water, said Kevin Warren, NSRI Gqeberha duty coxswain.