Reviews & Ratings for the Amber-1

On September 28, 2015, at 4:32 PM, the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) Port Alfred station sprang into action after receiving an urgent distress signal from the Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA). The vessel 'Rambler', traveling from Madagascar to Cape Town, experienced a mechanical failure causing it to drift dangerously close to shore while dragging its anchor, posing a significant risk of running aground near Port Alfred within hours. Responding promptly, the NSRI Port Alfred launched its lifeboat, the 'Lotto Challenger', and proceeded to the scene situated five nautical miles east of Port Alfred, approximately 1.5 miles offshore. The conditions offshore were challenging, with three-meter swells and southwesterly winds reaching 20 knots. The crew estimated that without intervention, the 'Rambler' could run aground within a couple of hours. As a precaution, a tugboat from TNPA, named 'Shiraz,' was dispatched from Port Elizabeth, accompanied by a rescue swimmer from NSRI Port Elizabeth. They were estimated to arrive by around 1 AM. Meanwhile, the 'Rambler's' crew tirelessly worked throughout the day to restore engine function. Their efforts were rewarded when they successfully restarted the engine and began maneuvering the vessel further away from the perilous shore, thereby negating the need for external assistance. The NSRI lifeboat remained on standby, ensuring the safety of the 'Rambler' until it was deemed secure and at a safe distance offshore. Later in the evening, the 'Lotto Challenger' made another check on the 'Rambler's' position near the Kowie River Mouth, confirming that the crew was no longer in immediate danger. They then returned to base but stayed ready for further action. On September 29, at 2 AM, the tug 'Shiraz' reached the location and successfully towed the 'Rambler' to the Port of Port Elizabeth, with the vessel arriving safely by 7 PM. For further details and visuals, please visit the NSRI report: http://www.nsri.org.za/2015/09/boat-prevented-from-running-aground/