Sunrise-Jade Vessel Reviews and Specifications

On January 19, 2016, a South African trawler named 'Lezandi' reportedly collided with the bulk carrier 'Sunrise Jade' amid dense fog conditions, leading to a dramatic rescue operation. At 1:33 a.m., the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) units from Simons Town, Kommetjie, and Hout Bay were alerted by the Transnet National Ports Authority after the trawler issued a Mayday distress signal. The 'Lezandi,' operated by Viking Fishing Company, was found approximately 10 nautical miles southwest of Cape Point, struggling to stay afloat with 14 crew members onboard as it took on water. In response to the emergency, the NSRI Simons Town deployed the rescue craft 'Spirit of Surfski II,' while 'Spirit of the Vines' was launched from Kommetjie, and Hout Bay sent out 'Nadine Gordimer' and 'Albie Matthews.' The rescue teams navigated to the last known coordinates provided by the trawler, while the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) initiated a comprehensive search and rescue operation. Telkom Maritime Radio Services assisted with communications, ensuring all necessary parties were informed and coordinated. The 'Sunrise Jade' was reported to be near the scene, and communication with Telkom Maritime confirmed that the crew of the 'Lezandi' was abandoning ship. Nearby vessels, including several fishing trawlers such as 'Freesia,' 'Armano,' 'Cape Frio,' 'Flame Thorn,' and 'Dan Tago,' as well as the bulk carrier 'Portos,' diverted their routes to assist in the unfolding emergency. In a crucial moment, a red distress flare was spotted, indicating that the crew had deployed life rafts as the vessel sank. At 2:35 a.m., prior to the arrival of NSRI vessels, the trawler 'Freesia' successfully located one of the life rafts and confirmed that all 14 crew members were safe and unharmed. The crew was promptly rescued and transported to Cape Town, where they were met by emergency medical services from WC Government Health EMS and ER24 for precautionary health assessments. Despite the traumatic incident, it appeared that the 'Sunrise Jade' sustained no damage from the suspected collision and continued its voyage to the Port of Saldanha. The South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) initiated an investigation into the matter. An advisory alert was issued by Telkom Maritime Radio Services to notify vessels in the area of the potential navigational hazard presented by the partly submerged 'Lezandi'. Conditions during the rescue were challenging, with dense fog, a 2.5-meter sea swell, and a southwesterly wind blowing at 26 knots. The MRCC expressed gratitude towards all vessels that participated in the successful rescue operation.