Coastguard Bluff responded with a crew of four on Bluff Rescue, supported by a Port Maintenance Ltd Bluff vessel with one person onboard, to get the group home safely.
Coastguard Bluff senior crew member Patrick Eschenmoser praised the young men for their judgment and calm response.
“They told us they didn’t want to be another statistic - and they absolutely made the right call,” he said.
“They carried out a perfect risk assessment, prioritised their safety, and kept clear communication with us the whole time.”
Eschenmoser said the three men made themselves easy to find by moving to higher ground and using their mobile phone lights to signal the approaching crews.
The crew used their runabout to ferry the men from the island back to Bluff Rescue, and all three were returned safely to shore.
Eschenmoser said the young men’s actions were key to the successful outcome.
“Don’t be too proud to call for help. We’re all here to help each other.”
Coastguard said those heading out on the water should:
- Always wear a lifejacket
- Always carry two forms of waterproof communication
- Check the marine weather forecast
- Log a trip report on the Coastguard app, and/or
- Tell a trusted friend or family member your whereabouts and estimated return time
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