Two rescued after tugboat sinks off Tofino Sunday
By Nelson Daily Staff
Two people were rescued Sunday after a tugboat sank off the coast of Tofino on Vancouver Island.
RCMP patrol vessel “Inkster” heard a “MAYDAY” distress call over the VHF radio Sunday at 10:30 a.m.
West Coast Marine Services members aboard the “Inkster” ascertained the location of the vessel in distress and determined that they were approximately 15 minutes away.
The “Inkster” which had been south bound from Hot Springs Cove heading towards Ucluelet, altered its course and proceeded towards the last known location of the 32-foot tugboat.
Approximately 10 minutes later, the crew of the vessel advised that they were taking on water, sinking and abandoning ship into a life raft. The “Inkster” crew arrived within five minutes and located a small raft near Schooner Cove containing two crew members.
Sea conditions at the time were three metres with moderate chop and winds
increasing to 30 knots.
Both crew members of the vessel were taken aboard the Inkster where they were provided medical assistance. RCMP crew members continued to monitor both individuals who were cold and wet.
Both men were transported to Ucluelet where they were met by family and friends. One man, 40, is from Tofino, the other, 53, from Ucluelet.
The Transportation Safety Board of Canada has been notified of the incident.
