Surfskiers made the most of the sunny and windy conditions, but several got into a spot of difficulty and the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) had to be called in to assist them. Fortunately there were no casualties.

The NSRI Simons Town said their duty crew was urgently summoned to assist following a distress call from a local surf-skier. The incident unfolded 300 meters offshore, just north of the famous Roman Rock Lighthouse, where two surf-skis collided during a downwind paddle.

“The situation quickly escalated as reports indicated that one of the surf-skis was severely damaged and in danger of sinking. The second surf-skier, holding on to the intact vessel, remained afloat and was in dire need of help. Simultaneously, an NSRI SafeTrx emergency activation alerted the NSRI Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) to a paddler in distress, pinpointing precise coordinates for immediate action.”

Responding promptly, the NSRI crew made their way to the Simons Town rescue base, where the rescue craft, Donna Nicholas, was launched to the site of the accident. Meanwhile, NSRI coast watchers were activated to offer visual support for the struggling surfers. As the rescue operation progressed, an observant crew member on the shoreline confirmed that a third surf-skier had joined the scene, ready to provide additional assistance to those affected by the collision.

“Upon arrival, the NSRI’s swift actions ensured the recovery of the casualty surf-skier, a local adult male, who fortunately emerged from the incident uninjured. Following his rescue, the other two surf-skiers regained their composure and continued their paddle, making it safely back to shore without further incident,” the NSRI said in a statement.

However, efforts to recover the damaged surf-ski proved challenging. NSRI rescue swimmers braved the surf to assist with the recovery, the damaged surf-ski—which was heavy with water—remained partially submerged. With assistance from the dedicated NSRI swimmers, a towline was established, enabling the damaged surf-ski to be safely towed back to the rescue base without additional complications.

Once at the NSRI rescue base, the damaged surf-ski was recovered, and it was confirmed that no further assistance was needed.

“The commendable actions of the two surf-skiers who initially raised the alarm and maintained a calm presence, coupled with the support of the third surf-skier, played a crucial role in ensuring the safety of all involved. The rapid response from NSRI Simons Town was instrumental in averting a potentially grave situation,” the organisations said.

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