Challenging salvage operation recovers sunken boats from Lake Rotoiti

Thanks to the efforts of the Bay of Plenty Regional Council Harbourmaster team, two sunken boats were successfully refloated at Wharetata Bay, Lake Rotoiti last month.

The accident occurred in calm waters when one vessel signalled another for a tow after it began taking on water. However, the distressed boat sank so quickly that it pulled the towing vessel down with it. Sadly, all phones and lifejackets went down with the boats, leaving five people stranded in the water for a considerable time before being rescued.

With both vessels submerged in 22 metres of water, specialised diving equipment and gear were required for the challenging salvage operation. Once refloated, both boats were safely returned to their owners.

This accident reinforces the need to always wear your lifejacket and carry two forms of waterproof communication. With water temperatures dropping as we head into winter, an accident like this could have been fatal.

New lifejacket regulations for vessels under six metres will come into effect later this year in the Bay of Plenty, making lifejackets (PFDs) compulsory to wear.

If you’re out on the water, make sure you know the boating rules to keep yourself and others safe.