British Royal Navy Touches Base at Simon’s Town Article and photos by Sea T.E. Baloyi Enquiries: 021 787 4697

The SA Navy was given the honour of hosting yet another British ship, the RFA GOLD ROVER on 2 July 2012, at Mike-Lima Outer Basin in Simons Bay. The ship’s Commanding Officer is Captain  N.A. Budd, who has been Commanding Officer of RFA GOLD ROVER for one and a half years. The ship’s company consist of 54 Royal Fleet Auxiliary personnel onboard, of which 16 are officers and 38 are ratings.

The tug boats towing the RFA Gold Rover in Outer Basin Simon's Bay

They will be staying for a period of three and a half weeks (2-27 July 2012); however, their visit to our shore is informal. The importance of their visit is to form ties and develop a growing friendship with the SA Navy. They will also be conducting routine maintenance of their vessel before heading to their next destination: the Falkland Islands and South Atlantic. The RFA GOLD ROVER has been away from home (London) since last year and is coming from Ghana in West Africa.

Navy Personnel securing the brow for the RFA Gold Rover	The senior ratings mess

The RFA Gold Rover is a replenishment ship with functions such as patrols, replenishing oil and fresh provisions. The ship was launched in 1973 and commissioned on 22 March 1974. It has been upgraded during the past few years with certain parts like generators, engines, boilers, refuelling equipment and it is still hard at work.

Lt M.D. Gcakasi interacting with Capt N.A. Budd	RFA Gold Rovers TV room

The SA Navy would like to give a warm welcome to Royal Fleet Auxiliary and we hope you enjoy your stay!