Motor cruiser in danger of sinking rescued by Harbour staff

Wednesday 18 October 2023

Harbour staff have worked to save a large motor cruiser that broke free from her pontoon and was taking on water.

Problems began on Tuesday morning as the easterly winds increased and one of the vessel’s mooring cleats gave way and she broke free from the Swan Pontoons.

Harbour Master Captain David Barker said: “Harbour staff re-secured the boat but, during subsequent security and safety checks, it became apparent that water was entering the vessel’s bilge.

“The source of the water ingress could not be identified and salvage pumps were rigged to keep the vessel afloat. With worsening weather conditions, and after removing six tonnes of greywater from the bilges, it became apparent that the salvage pumps were unable to contain the water level.”

The cruiser, which carries the name Seas the Moment on her stern, had been berthed on the Swan Pontoons over the last week prior to heading up to Marine & General in St Sampson’s, however her engines could not be started when attempts were made to move her.

Captain Barker said: “In consultation with the owner, the decision was made to move the vessel onto the Careening Hard to allow a better assessment of her condition."

“This removes the risk of her sinking on the pontoons and the likely total loss of the vessel and the associated pollution risk.

“Now in daylight, the vessel’s condition is being assessed before a further course of action is determined.”