NSRI Jeffreys Bay, the National Sea Rescue Institute station, was activated on Sunday, 2 April at 5.10pm, following reports of a double sea kayak that had capsized at Walskipper, Paradise Beach.
The kayak had two local men onboard, and one of them was reported missing.
The NSRI rescue craft, Rescue 37, was launched while NSRI shore crew, the SA Police Services, EC Government Health EMS, and Kouga Municipal lifeguards were all called to assist with the rescue.
Upon arrival at the scene, it was determined that one man had managed to swim to shore and was safe and uninjured.
But the other man, aged 43, was still missing, so a large search was done at sea and along the shore. Unfortunately, no signs of the missing man were found during the search. Police divers were alerted and are continuing their ongoing search.
Also read: NSRI completes another rescue from the BOS 400 wreck at Maori Bay
On Monday, NSRI Jeffreys Bay conducted shoreline search efforts to assist the police divers in their ongoing search. The thoughts of the NSRI are with the family of the missing man during this difficult time.
It appears that the two men had been fishing in a double sea kayak when their craft was capsized by a wave. One man managed to swim ashore, but the other man went missing in the surf. The NSRI managed to recover the double sea kayak that was located semi-submerged.
This is a tragic incident that serves as a reminder of the importance of water safety. The NSRI advises that anyone planning on going out to sea should ensure that they are equipped with the necessary safety gear, including life jackets, communication devices and flares.
It is also important to check the weather and sea conditions before setting out to sea and to notify someone of your plans and expected return time.
Also read:
NSRI Gordon’s Bay rescues capsized couple suffering from hypothermia
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