Browsed by
Tag: South Africa

MFV Lincoln

MFV Lincoln

Lincoln
Photo: vesselfinder.com

On September 27, the 42 meter long fishing vessel Lincoln was disabled in heavy seas in False Bay near Cape Town, South Africa. The Lincoln became swamped by massive waves and listed over to one side.  The vessel sent out a distress call before the 21 crewmen on board abandoned ship.  Nine of the crew were rescued from the water, but twelve others drowned.  Reports state that some of the crew had slipped through their life jackets. The Lincoln remained afloat and was later taken under tow by another fishing vessel towards Table Bay. The incident is under investigation.

Pacific Quartz

Pacific Quartz

Pacific Quartz

The 180 meter long, 47941 dwt oil tanker Pacific Quartz ran aground in the harbour at Durban, South Africa. The tanker was proceeding with two pilots when it struck bottom off the North Pier in heavy swells reaching 6 meters in height.  The Pacific Quartz sustained damage to a ballast tank on starboard side resulting in water ingress.  No reports of injuries, damage or pollution released. The South African Maritime Safety Authority has launched an investigation into the incident.

Sikelela Aground

Sikelela Aground

Sikelela
Photo: NSRI

On August 28, the fishing vessel Sikelela ran aground in St. Francis Bay near St. Francis, South Africa. The vessel had suffered a power blackout while attempting to return to harbour in 5 meter swells and high winds.  The crew was unable to gain control of the Sikelela as the waves drove the vessel ashore.  The eight crewmen escaped the fishing vessel to the shoreline.  A few others were unable to leap ashore and were left hanging onto the vessel as waves crashed over the vessel.  The NSRI lifeboat arrived on scene and rescued three crew.  The NRSI also rescued the  master of the Sikelela. He had suffered injuries after loosing his footing.  The Sikelela continued to be battered into the rocks the following days until  it was smashed into a total loss.  Some oil and fuel was released but was dissipated by the waves.