Sailor rescued after engine failure -Richards Bay

A Richards Bay sailor was rescued early this morning (Sunday) after his wife reported him adrift with an engine failure.

The solo sailor sailed from Mozambique heading to Richards Bay and he was delayed during the Covid-19 lockdown.

In high sea conditions off-shore of Cape Vidal with strong winds, the man was reportedly attempting to hold position on only one of two outboard motors but his vessel was gradually drifting towards shore.

Jacques Kruger, NSRI Richards Bay duty coxswain, said the man was in no immediate danger but NSRI St Lucia sea rescue craft remained with him.

‘NSRI rescue swimmers were put onboard the motor Catamaran to try to fix the motor but were unable to get it started.

‘The sailer was able to continue making slow progress towards Richards Bay on one of his outboard motors.

‘NSRI escorted the casualty motor vessel closer to Richards Bay before heading back to the NSRI St Lucia sea rescue base after the casualty vessel was able to continue making good headway on one motor.’

The operation was completed at 12h30 on Sunday.