Yangze-10 Vessel Reviews and Specifications

On the evening of January 5, 2014, a dramatic rescue operation unfolded off the coast of Cape Town when an injured crew member from the bulk carrier 'Weltrust' required urgent medical attention. The vessel, which had recently departed from Saldanha en route to Australia, reported that a 25-year-old Chinese seaman had suffered significant injuries after a fall on deck, including lacerations and bruises to his thigh and leg. A medical assessment conducted via telephone by a physician prompted a rapid response, with a plan to deploy a helicopter from the 22 Squadron alongside the NSRI Helicopter Rescue Unit. The rescue teams intended to meet the 'Weltrust' approximately 20 nautical miles from Cape Point. Unfortunately, adverse conditions characterized by high winds and turbulent seas hampered helicopter operations. In light of the challenging weather, the NSRI shifted strategy, opting to dispatch a rescue boat to ensure the seaman’s safety. Concurrently, the 'Weltrust' was directed to navigate towards Cape Town, coordinating a rendezvous with the NSRI vessel 'Spirit of Vodacom' just offshore from Mouille Point. Once on the scene, NSRI medics utilized a stokes basket to stabilize and transfer the injured sailor onto the 'Spirit of Vodacom' using the ship's crane. The timely and professional efforts of the rescue teams ensured the seaman was swiftly transported to the NSRI Table Bay sea rescue base, where an ambulance was on standby to whisk him to the hospital for further treatment. This operation exemplifies the commitment and efficiency of maritime rescue services in emergency situations.