Mossel Bay Advertiser
The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) has moved to explain a decision not to remove the body of 60-year-old Darrol Hansen from his stricken vessel, Panacea, which eventually sank on Sunday.
In a statement NSRI spokesperson, Craig Lambinon said after Hansen's body was located on board the vessel which was adrift at sea, the NSRI was requested to assist in towing the yacht to shelter in Stilbaai.
He said there was also a request by authorities "to not breach the cabin" or to disturb the body in order for a formal investigation to be conducted on board in Stilbaai.
Lambinon said the sea rescue craft Breede Rescuer was despatched and on arrival on the scene, approximately 30 nautical miles South South East of Stilbaai, and in foul weather conditions, the yacht was found to have sustained some damage and taking on water.
"A towline was established and while towing the yacht towards Stilbaai weather conditions deteriorated and the tow was released." He said an Automatic Identification Signal beacon was left secured on board.
Lambinon said on Saturday authorities requested the NSRI to respond during the early hours of Sunday morning to attempt to recover the Panacea to Mossel Bay.
He said they were also requested not to breach or disturb the cabin in order to allow for formal investigations to be carried out on arrival in Mossel Bay Harbour.
The Panacea was located 60 nautical miles away and was found to have sustained significant water intake.
Lambinon said their crew set up a water extrication pump and established a towline, but while on the way to Mossel Bay, additional water flooded the yacht.
He said sadly before a second water extrication pump could arrive, the yacht sank, about 12 nautical miles from port.
"NSRI members, who have known the family for many years, have paid tribute to the life of Darrol Hansen," he said.
"Authorities are assessing the possibilities to locate the sunken yacht and the possible recovery of the body."
