The cyclonic weather conditions, which battered the Durban Beach Front did not stop the Port of Durban’s marine pilot from safely steering an automotive vessel into the port.
What happened?
Rainer Rauntenberg, who has been a marine pilot for more than 14 years, successfully steered the vessel under adverse weather conditions believed to be caused by a tropical cyclone Enawo – which struck Madagascar.
Three tugs deployed for salvage:
As a result of the rough weather conditions, the Port of Durban had to deploy three tugs to steer in the vessel. In normal weather conditions, one to two tugs is used.
Port of DurbanHarbour Master Alex Miya said, “The pilot’s bravery to safely bring in a vessel in high wind conditions and large ocean swells prove that the Port of Durban is always ready to service its customers and will not let adverse weather conditions delay vessel turnaround time, whilst adhering to maritime safety precautions.”
High winds:
The wind speed on March 12, 2017, was recorded between 30 to 40 knots and is considered a very high speed wind which can create difficulty in manoeuvring vessels.
“It was challenging to bring in a vessel in such rough weather conditions but my focus was to make sure that it was safely berthed,” said Rauntenberg who has worked for the Port of Durban for seven years.
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Source: Southlands Sun
