VOEA Neiafu rescue crew of French Yacht La Tortue [1]
Monday, October 11, 2010 - 08:58. Updated on Thursday, May 29, 2014 - 09:31.
Tonga Police were notified of a vessel in distress at 6.15pm on Friday 8 October 2010.
RCC New Zealand advised they had received notification of a distress call from the crew of the French Yacht La Tortue.
The yacht had been cruising in Tongan waters and struck a reef near Kelefesia Island in the Haapai Group.
The four crew, two men and two women managed to get off the sinking yacht and reach Kelefesia Island in their small dingy.
They had contact through a satellite phone and RCC New Zealand advised Tonga Police of their location.
Tonga Defence Service also received notification from Fiji Martime regarding the situation.
The Defence vessel, VOEA Neiafu responded from Nukualofa with Defence and Police personnel on board.
The search & rescue team sailed to the area overnight in rough sea conditions.
Early this morning the Search & Rescue Team located the four crew members on Kelefesia Island and they were taken on board the Neiafu.
All four appear safe & well and are returning to Nukualofa mid afternoon.
The crew will be interviewed by Police in respect of the incident and the Honorary French Consul here in Nukualofa is assisting. We believe the abandoned yacht has sunk. T. Faletau, Deputy Police Commander, 09/10/10.