We hear stories via our blogs of paddling trips that don't go so well. Well, here's a real life sea mutiny, in New Zealand, of all places.The New Zealand Herald reports, that Nelson (where my brother Rob lives) accountant Bill Heritage (photo above) said he was forced to abandon his 7.9m sloop Air Apparent about 90 nautical miles west of the Kaipara Harbour on Wednesday when his inexperienced crew ignored his orders and set off the yacht's emergency locator beacon.
However, one of Mr Heritage's crew said the boat was inadequately prepared for the journey they would not pay for its loss unless ordered to by a court.
All four were air-lifted off the yacht by an emergency services helicopter and flown back to Auckland. Mr Heritage could not stay on board alone because it was too dangerous.
The Compass 790 yacht was left floating and a navigation warning was issued to shipping by Maritime New Zealand.
The maritime rescue involved two helicopters and cost more than NZ$20,000. The crew's admitted they mutinied as they feared for their lives when the engine, sails, drogue and instrumentation packed up on them.How to lose good friendships...
7 comments:
Interested in a little salvage work? ;-)
michael, i'll go with you... these boneheads don't deserve their boat.
You're on. We leave in the morning... Kristen, you coming or not (Your Dad's boat could be our support platform...)?
Bags are packed! Have called dad - everything's set up.
I'd be happy to crew on the way back to Durham. Which way? East or west? I'll make my reservations.
David - just be at the dock. 9 sharp. Bring your deck shoes and sunscreen.
kiwi i always wanted to meet your dad! Is he in?
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