Dramatic Rescue of Spanish Diver Adrift at Protea Banks

In an extensive and coordinated rescue operation, a 59-year-old Spanish diver was saved after being adrift for over three hours in the turbulent waters of Protea Banks, South Africa. This event underscores the vital role of advanced technology and seamless collaboration among various rescue units in maritime safety.

The operation commenced shortly after the diver was reported missing at about 09:00 AM on Wednesday, 20 November. She had been part of a recreational dive tour but surfaced away from her group and became lost in 4 to 5-meter swells with strong northeastern winds. The alert was raised by her dive charter, triggering an immediate and vast search operation coordinated from the NSRI Shelly Beach station.

Integral to the search were two NSRI rescue craft, "Spirit of Dawn" and "Spirit of Steve," launched from the Shelly Beach and Port Edward bases respectively. Additionally, the police and multiple rescue vessels, including charter fishing boats "Serenity" and "Pelagic Hunter," participated actively in the search. Ground support was reinforced by MRCC, Durban Port Control, and the strategic deployment of Transnet National Ports Authority's helicopter, Transnet One.

The advanced technology and coordinated efforts paid off when, at 12:19 PM, the diver was spotted by the helicopter crew 9 nautical miles from her last known location and 5 nautical miles offshore of Trafalgar. Her successful spotting was facilitated by her own survival instincts as she frantically waved her arms, drawing the attention of the rescue team above.

Upon rescue, the diver was found to be in good spirits and unharmed. She was promptly returned to shore aboard the "Spirit of Dawn" and reunited with her fellow divers in what was undoubtedly an emotional gathering.

This operation not only highlighted the NSRI's adeptness at managing complex rescue missions but also showcased the critical importance of cooperation between the NSRI, TNPA, local charter boats, and private aircraft. The community's participation was essential in ensuring the safe return of the diver. Her ordeal serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of sea diving and the indispensable security that coordinated rescue efforts provide.