Efficient SAR Operation: Yacht Fanabella Safely Towed to Górki Zachodnie
In the early hours of the morning, at approximately 03:30 local time, the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) in Gdynia received a report from the Port Authority of Gdańsk concerning a sailing yacht experiencing engine failure near the port breakwaters. The vessel, Fanabella, was at risk of drifting into tetrapod structures, posing a direct threat to the safety of the crew and the integrity of the yacht.
In brief
The yacht Fanabella, with a damaged propulsion system, was towed to Górki Zachodnie after drifting near the breakwaters of the Port of Gdańsk. The Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre in Gdynia received a report from the Gdańsk Harbour Master's Office at 3:30 a.m. and dispatched the vessel m/s Wiatr from the station in Górki Zachodnie. Two people were on board the yacht Fanabella, including helmsman Andrzej Placek. The operation was the 158th intervention of the Polish Maritime Search and Rescue Service in Polish waters in 2025.
MRCC promptly dispatched the SAR vessel m/s Wiatr, operated by the Maritime Search and Rescue Service (SAR) from the Górki Zachodnie station. Upon arrival on scene, the rescue crew quickly established a tow line and began the operation to escort the stricken yacht to safe harbour.
Two persons were on board the yacht at the time of the incident, including veteran skipper and prominent figure in Polish sailing, Andrzej Placek. The tow proceeded without incident, and Fanabella was successfully berthed at Górki Zachodnie marina.
This marks the 158th SAR intervention on Polish territorial waters in 2025, underscoring the operational readiness and effectiveness of Poland’s maritime rescue infrastructure.
Source: Gazeta Morska · Compiled by: Kamil Kusier
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