|
|
From: Ken James (no email)
Date: Sat May 24 2008 - 23:25:09 EDT
Was reading this months "Soundings" magazine, very interesting article
about a sailboat that was abandoned near New Zealand. Seems a guy took
his buddy and a couple with him rounding NZ in a 26 ft Contessa I think
it was (very good offshore boat, bit cramped for four) and got in some
dirty weather, not too bad even by our standards in the US, max waves
10-12 ft, winds mostly 25 kts and below, but his boat had various
failures, nothing critical even though he was unable to start the engine
and had no back up alternative power so his batteries were about to run
out which meant he would loose comms and other things (LED nav lights,
anyone? <G>). Also some injures to crew and sea sickness, again nothing
life treating but surely unpleasant.
In any case his crew popped the EPRIB and they were all taken off by
helo. Some of the crew seemed to think the boat was in danger of
'broaching', something many who are not experienced in big offshore
conditions might think when a bit of a blow happens.
I guess he left because he felt he would not be able to safely continue
by himself, a mistake right off, since he should have been. Or maybe he
felt he had to obey, if it were me on my boat, I would tell the rescuers
to go away and leave me to my own risks, but I have confidence in my
boat and single-handing her.
Now he is suing the crew for a new boat.
I think his biggest mistake was taking on such a crew, but he left his
vessel, so tough luck...comments anyone? -Ken
___________________________________________________________________________
|| The Live-Aboard List : send a "subscribe" or "unsubscribe" request ||
|| in body of message to: ||
|