Vincent Landman, NSRI Gordons Bay duty coxswain, said:
At 08h14, Sunday, 02 June, NSRI Gordons Bay duty crew were activated by the Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) following reports of a 10.7 meter crayfish fishing boat taking water at her mooring in Gordons Bay harbour.
No crew were reported to be on the vessel at the time and there was no imminent danger.
Our NSRI crew responded to the scene where water extrication pumps were initiated to begin extracting water from the vessel that had sunk to beneath her gunnels from unknown causes.
Cape Town Fire and Rescue Services, WC Government Health EMS rescue squad, GB Med Sec ambulance services responded.
Extra water extrication pumps were set up by Fire and Rescue Services.
Oil and fuel spillage was detected and DRM (Disaster Risk Management) responded and the Transnet Ports Authority and DRM dispatched Environmental Oil and Chemical Pollution Control and on arrival on the scene they set up booms to contain any oil and fuel spillage and equipment to successfully contain and eliminate any environmental impact.
The vessel has been re-floated and the owners are in consultation with salvors to determine any further assistance required.
NSRI commend all emergency services that reacted quickly to assist on the scene and in avoiding any environmental impact.