Complete Maritime Profile & Reviews of Boka-Forward

Details have emerged surrounding the daring rescue operation involving the vessel 'ALP Forward' in the North Atlantic on June 9, 2017. At 11:17 a.m., under the leadership of Captain Eduard Voschenko, the 'ALP Forward' received a distress signal from the JRCC Halifax, calling on all ships near the coordinates 48°21.3'N 035°38.7'W to respond. By 11:24 a.m., the 'ALP Forward' reported its position at 50°3.2'N, 034°32.7'W and received orders to head towards the yacht 'Happy' located at 48°12.91'N 035°33.46'W for a search and rescue operation. Later, at 2:09 p.m., the JRCC Halifax redirected the vessel to assist the s/y 'Harmoni' at 50°06.45'N 035°52.22'W, as it was closer than the 'Happy'. Despite battling winds from the northeast reaching 50 knots and swell heights of 10-12 meters, the 'ALP Forward' persisted, changing its course to 258° and moving as quickly as possible. By 6:40 p.m., contact was established on VHF CH16 with the 'Harmoni', with expectations of arrival within 45 minutes. Communication continued on VHF CH15 with the rescue aircraft, updating on the positions of both the 'Happy' and 'Harmoni'. However, at 6:50 p.m., JRCC Halifax instructed the 'ALP Forward' to revert to search and rescue efforts for the 'Happy', which was taking on water, placing the crew in imminent danger. They adjusted their heading to 170°. In the early hours of June 10, at 4:06 a.m., the 'ALP Forward' reconnected on VHF CH16 with another aircraft for situational updates on 'Happy'. The rescue aircraft flew over 'Happy', proceeding toward the s/y 'Tamarind', which was also reporting distress. The crew established communication with the 'MSC Anzu', which was nearby, to gather more information about 'Happy'. Shortly thereafter, visual contact was made with 'Happy', prompting the 'ALP Forward' to approach and assess conditions. They chose to wait until dawn, hoping for improved weather. At 08:00 a.m. UTC, following approval of the rescue plan by JRCC Halifax, the crew of 'Happy' was instructed to wear immersion suits, don life jackets, and prepare essential rescue gear. The 'MSC Anzu' provided wind shelter, allowing the crew to inflate their life raft. By 08:20 a.m., the operation was in full swing, and at 08:40 a.m., two crew members were successfully rescued at position 48°00.0'N, 035°02.1'W and reported to JRCC Halifax. During the mission, the 'ALP Forward' covered a distance of 270 nautical miles. First aid was administered to the rescued individuals, Wytse Jan Bouma and Jaap Barendregt, both of whom were reported to be in good spirits, showing no complaints. At 1:25 p.m., Captain Voschenko received confirmation from JRCC Halifax that the 'Tamarind' crew had been safely rescued by the 'Queen Mary 2'. Subsequently, the 'ALP Forward' was released from the mission and altered course to 250°, heading towards Freeport, Bahamas. For more detailed insights and visuals, visit [Maritiem Nieuws](http://maritiemnieuws.nl/79632/nederlandse-wedstrijdzeilers-gered-op-atlantische-oceaan/) and see updates [here](https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=454984324894355&set=pcb.454990351560419&type=3&theater).

On June 9, 2017, a fierce storm struck the Ostar/Twostar race approximately 1600 kilometers off the coast of Newfoundland, resulting in three yachts activating their EPIRBs as they faced treacherous conditions of 60-knot winds and towering waves reaching 10-15 meters. The Canadian Coast Guard sprang into action, initiating a search and rescue (SAR) operation amidst the chaotic maritime environment on June 11. The Royal Canadian Air Force, along with British and Portuguese aircraft, provided aerial support, while nearby vessels rallied to assist the beleaguered sailors. Among those rescued was Mervyn Wheatley, who was aboard the Formosa 42 “Tamarind.” The yacht sustained catastrophic damage, with a smashed porthole leading to significant flooding and loss of steering. After battling the inundation for hours, Wheatley was ultimately rescued by the renowned cruise liner “Queen Mary 2” and brought safely to Halifax. Meanwhile, Dutch sailors Wytse Bouma and Jaap Barendregt aboard their Sun Fast 37 “Happy” faced their own dilemma when their mast broke. They were successfully rescued by the tug “Alp Forward.” Additionally, Mihail Kopanov and Dian Zaykov, sailing their Luffe 37 “Furia,” were near disaster as their yacht began to sink but were saved just in time by the vessel “Thor Magni.” As chaos unfolded, other competitors attempted to navigate to safer waters. Peter Crowther on his Swan 38 “Suomi Kudu” had to turn back due to sail issues, while Keith Walton on the Najad 490 “Harmonii” struggled to reach the Azores utilizing engine power after damage to his rigging. For further coverage and photographs from this dramatic rescue operation, please visit: - [Segelreporter](http://segelreporter.com/regatta/offshore/ostar-rettung-queen-mary-2-fischt-segler-auf-roettgering-kaempft-sich-durch-sturm/) - [BBC News](http://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-devon-40239586) - [Infotel](http://infotel.ca/newsitem/all-crew-aboard-distressed-ships-in-transatlantic-race-safe/it43313#.WT16Q2ikLIU) - [Aftonbladet](http://www.aftonbladet.se/nyheter/a/1lQge/svenska-rebecka-mitt-i-havsdrama-nar-segelbat-forliste)

In a significant maritime incident, a Transocean-owned drilling rig has run aground on the coast of Scotland after experiencing a towline failure amid treacherous weather conditions. The vessel, identified as the Transocean Winner, found itself beached near the Isle of Lewis during a strong storm that caused serious disruptions at sea. The tow parted due to the intense forces, leaving the rig unable to maneuver safely. Local authorities were notified promptly, and response teams are currently assessing the impact and potential salvage operations. This incident highlights the challenges faced in the offshore industry and emphasizes the importance of contingency plans for severe weather at sea.