Recovery Work Underway
Thursday 4th May 2006 16.00 hrs [updating on the previous press statement of 16.00 hrs Wednesday 3rd May 2006].
Rangiroa is probably one of the most beautiful places in the world but its remote geography and complete lack of salvage resources has proved challenging. However, in less than 4 days from the incident occurring, a full salvage team are assembled working towards re-floating Gipsy Moth IV.
The international team, led by Captain Kleijwert of Smit Salvage of Rotterdam and Richard Baggett of the Gipsy Moth IV Project, includes the owner of a local boat yard, two ship surveyors from Tahiti, a tug captain, two specialist divers and a team of experienced ship construction workers. Resources available in the area include a flat top barge, a crane and a Voith Schneider tug with a 40 tonne pulling capability.
The arrival of marine recovery expert Captain Burt Kleijwegt and Gipsy Moth IV lead skipper Richard Baggett has provided a clearer picture of the situation in Rangiroa. An accurate report confirms that initial reports were optimistic and damage to the yacht is more extensive than first reported. The damage is repairable and plans for the yacht’s recovery and repair remain in place.
The team has now begun preparations for the re-floating of the vessel. The plan includes gently lifting the yacht at low tide with a crane, effecting temporary repairs to the damaged area and constructing a wooden frame to protect and support the hull. At high tide and having lightened the yacht by removing as much of the yacht’s inventory as possible and using floatation devices, she will be re-floated. The Voith Schneider tug, because of the unique design of its propulsion system, is able not only to hold its position relative to the yacht very accurately but also increases its pulling power in gentle steps. It is hoped that this control together with the calm weather conditions forecast will enable the team to tow the yacht resting on its side in its cradle 15m across the reef to deepwater.
We are confident with the plan but are fully aware of the risks associated with the operation. These include further damage to the structure and integrity of the yacht and hull by the movement across the reef. Point loading as the vessel slides from the reef into deepwater. Pounding damage as she moves through the surf. Water ingress as she re-floats.
The weather forecast remains favourable over the weekend for the Gipsy Moth IV recovery operation. Andrew Eccleston, the project’s official meteorologist said, “Probably the most critical issue for the team is the sea state. With an easterly wind at a round 10 knots or less, the waves around the reef should be very slight. However, Rangiroa is an isolated atoll in the middle of an ocean and is subject to the swell produced by large-scale weather patterns as they move past. The present swell from the south is expected to remain at around 1 metre in height. There are also isolated tropical thunderstorms in the area. They are visible in satellite images and if one passes near the reef where the Moth is resting it could provide some heavy rain and freshening local winds which would cause some bigger waves for a short time.”
Once floated and following confirmation of her watertight condition, Gipsy Moth IV will be towed 200 miles to Tahiti for further assessment. This tow is not without risk but is the only effective way to move the vessel from Rangiroa to a point of safety. The plan is to ship the yacht to Auckland from Tahiti where repairs can be carried out. Auckland has more favourable resources than Tahiti including better access to materials, modern facilities and skilled labour.
Record hits on the project’s website and floods of phone calls from supporters and well wishers has led to the Gipsy Moth IV Project Team to create a dedicated section on the www.gipsymoth.org home page, providing up to date information about the rescue operation as it happens. Information will be added around the clock and images and video footage will be added when available. The new section will be online from 20.00 hrs this evening.
David Green ( CEO UKSA ).
Mobile: ( 07970 ) 628439.
Email: dgreen@uksa.org
UK Sailing Academy,
West Cowes,
Isle of Wight.
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NOTE TO MEDIA
For further press information, please contact:
Anna Symcox
PR Manager & PA to the CEO
United Kingdom Sailing Academy
Tel: +44 (0) 1983 203016
Fax: +44 (0) 1983 295938
Mob: +44 (0) 7709 485674
Email: anna.symcox@uksa.org
Web: www.uksa.org |
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United Kingdom Sailing Academy
UKSA is recognized as the world's leading Sailing Academy. It is a registered charity and non - profit making organization supported by the Lister Trust. Based in West Cowes on the Isle of Wight it has superb, modern facilities with residential accommodation and operates a fleet of over 300 craft. UKSA provide a wide range of courses aimed at adults, young people and the disabled. Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal is Patron to the Academy and Ellen MacArthur is their Ambassador.
Yachting Monthly
Gipsy Moth IV's second world voyage celebrates the 100th birthday of leading marine publication Yachting Monthly magazine and the 40th anniversary of Sir Francis' celebrated single-handed voyage.
Isle of Wight
The Isle of Wight Economic Partnership is the economic development agency for the Isle of Wight. Their unique position allows them to bridge the gap between the public and private sectors and ensure a coordinated approach in improving the Island's economy.
Corum Swiss Timepieces official time keeper for the Gipsy Moth IV Project
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