When a ski boat suddenly capsized, tossing five people into the choppy sea, a crew of quick-thinking fishermen became extraordinary heroes.
Durban, South Africa (25 September 2025) – What was supposed to be a slow Sunday at sea turned into a desperate fight for survival when a ski boat suddenly capsized, tossing its five-person crew into the choppy sea offshore of Maydon Wharf on 21 September.
A call for help was sent out, and the NSRI Durban duty crew was activated. They launched their rescue craft and headed toward the scene, but they weren’t the first on the scene.
A private fishing vessel, Salty Souls, which was in the area at the time, responded to assist.
“On the NSRI rescue craft arriving on the scene, we found that the crew of Good Samaritans from a local private fishing craft, Salty Souls, had rescued all five casualty crew from the water,” said NSRI Durban duty coxswain, Jacques Kruger.
With the five survivors safe, the NSRI crew was able to focus on the capsized ski-boat. They deployed rescue swimmers, righted the vessel, and towed it to the Pompano Angling Club, where it was later recovered.
“The skipper of the capsized vessel suffered an injury but was reportedly stable and not requiring any urgent medical care,” said Kruger, adding that the cause of the ski-boat capsizing was being investigated.
The NSRI commended the Salty Souls crew for their bravery and quick action, which saved lives.
They were in the right place at the right time and chose to take swift, courageous action. Their heroism in the face of danger is a testament to the fact that ordinary fishermen on a regular day can rise to the occasion and become extraordinary heroes.
Sources: Supplied
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