A new rescue boat being built for the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) will carry the name of Graham Howes, turning a family’s personal tragedy into a lasting effort to help save lives at sea, Cape {town} Etc reports.
The 5.5-metre vessel, Spirit of Graham Howes, is being built for NSRI Station 16 in Strandfontein and is expected to join the rescue fleet later this year. For the Howes family, the boat represents more than a tribute. It is a way to keep Graham’s connection to the ocean alive while supporting the rescue crews who go out in dangerous conditions to help others.
A family’s loss inspires a mission to save lives
Howes, a world-class kiteboarder known in the international extreme-sports community, died on 7 September 2025. His body was recovered the following day after an extensive search involving NSRI crews and other emergency resources. The experience left a deep impression on his family, who witnessed first-hand the commitment of those searching for him.
When they launched a fundraising campaign in November 2025, Graham’s parents, Gerry and Richard Howes, wanted to give something back to the organisation that had stood by them during an unimaginably difficult time.
‘We couldn’t have got through that night without the NSRI.’
– Gerry Howes.
Richard also spoke about the reassurance the family felt knowing that rescue crews were out on the water, despite the challenging conditions. Their experience became the driving force behind a project to fund rescue vessels in Graham’s memory, ensuring that his name would remain connected to the sea he loved.
The first result of that fundraising effort is now becoming a reality, with NSRI strategic partner Gemini Marine building the new rigid-hull inflatable boat (RHIB).
According to NSRI head of fundraising Alison Smith, R200 000 has been raised so far. A BackaBuddy campaign is seeking a further R600 000 to support the wider initiative. Gemini Marine has also donated the vessel’s hull, helping bring the project closer to completion.
The boat is expected to be completed in October, with a blessing ceremony planned for the end of November. The timing will allow Richard, who lives in Portugal, to attend while visiting South Africa. For the family, seeing the vessel take to the water will give a practical purpose to their remembrance of Graham.
‘To have a rescue craft named after Graham would be amazing. Knowing that Graham continues to sail the sea, helping people in distress.’
– Richard Howes.
The project reflects the role rescue organisations play in South Africa, where a coastline enjoyed by surfers, kiteboarders, swimmers and other water users can also become dangerous when conditions change.
For the NSRI, every rescue vessel is an important resource in responding to people in trouble at sea. For the Howes family, Spirit of Graham Howes will carry an additional meaning: a reminder of the people who answered the call when their own family needed help.
Gerry said the idea of a boat bearing her son’s name would help preserve his presence in the world.
‘He had the same passion as the NSRI, so it would be great if there were a boat in Graham’s memory that belongs to the NSRI.’
– Gerry Howes
The family’s plans extend beyond the first vessel. Smith said the intention is to continue fundraising after the boat has been delivered, with the longer-term goal of supporting future rescue vessels in Graham’s honour.
That ambition could allow the project to grow into an ongoing contribution to sea rescue, rather than a once-off memorial.
The new boat will ultimately be judged by the lives it helps protect, carrying Graham’s name into the very environment that shaped his life.
Those who wish to learn more about the initiative or contribute to the campaign can visit the
More information about the initiative and contributions can be found here.
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Picture: NSRI / Facebook
