Steering failure leads to NSRI yacht rescue in Table Bay

NSRI crews towed a disabled sailing yacht to safety at the V&A Waterfront after rudder failure in strong winds off Table Bay. A sailing yacht with five people on board was safely towed to harbour after suffering steering failure in challenging wind conditions off Table Bay on Sunday afternoon. According to theNational Sea Rescue Institute(NSRI), its Table Bay duty crew were activated at 3.54pm on March 22 following a request for assistance from a 30-foot local sailing yacht experiencing rudder failure.

NSRI Table Bay duty coxswain Marc de Vos said the crew responded from Station 3, launching the rescue craftDHL Deliverer, while shore teams were dispatched to assess potential berthing options. The yacht was located at anchor in Granger Bay, with all five crew members reported safe. “Wind speeds were increasing at the time and during the operation wind speeds increased to 35 knots, gusting to 55 knots,” de Vos said.

A towline was secured, and initial plans to berth the vessel at the Water Club or the Royal Cape Yacht Club were considered. However, due to worsening weather conditions, an alternative arrangement was made. Marina management at theV&A Waterfrontfacilitated a temporary berth at Quay 6, allowing the rescue team to bring the vessel safely into harbour.

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Despite the strong winds, the yacht was towed without incident and secured at the marina. No injuries were reported and no further assistance was required. The yacht’s owner is expected to carry out repairs to the rudder before relocating the vessel to its usual mooring at theRoyal Cape Yacht Club.

De Vos commended the skipper for raising the alarm promptly and thanked marina management for assisting with safe berthing arrangements. The NSRI has reminded seafarers to report emergencies early and to ensure vessels are well maintained before heading out to sea.

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