The P&O Nedlloyd container ship Encounter will arrive at the yacht at 6pm this evening to attempt a rescue.
RCCNZ mission controller Neville Blakemore says Encounter is significantly larger than the ship that attempted yesterday’s rescue. However, he says that this is probably a good thing, as the ship may be able to stop and shelter the yacht, as the sea is a lot calmer.
“There are several possible ways the crew of the Encounter might try to rescue the couple. These include lowering a life boat, rope or net down the side of the ship to rescue the crew, or lowering a gangplank, which is like a set of stairs. Any attempt would be made only if the ship and couple could do so safely,” he said.
The Encounter
The Orion will remain on scene until about 8pm tonight to oversee any rescue attempt.
The weather is significantly better than yesterday, with a 15 knot north-westerly in the area, and 1.5 metre swells, and the sea state has calmed.
The New Zealand cargo vessel Southern Tiare is still heading towards Janette Gay, as a back up in case today’s rescue attempt is not successful. The Encounter will remain with the yacht throughout the night, if required.
If the crew need to spend another night on the yacht, the Orion will drop a life raft to the pair.
For further information contact:
RCCNZ Media Line
Phone 04 499 7318
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