After being away from SMST for more
than 7 weeks, the morale onboard SAS DRAKENSBERG (DKB)
was extremely high as she finally left the Spanish Naval
Harbour of Rota at midday on Monday 02 April. Both DKB
and SAS CHARLOTTE MAXEKE were scheduled to start with
the transit to Simon’s Town on Saturday (31 March) but
due to unforeseen circumstances the DKB had to stand
fast and let the sub start the passage on her own.
SAS CHARLOTTE MAXEKE leaving harbour.
During the transit from Emden to Rota,
both vessels suffered minor damage due to the terrible
seas. The stay in Rota was extended in order to repair
the damages incurred and to prepare both vessels for the
long passage home. The maintenance lasted for about a
week with both vessels ready to depart on Saturday 31
March for the final stretch of the voyage. However, it
was decided on Friday 30 March that the DKB would remain
alongside till Monday in order to finalise arrangements
for a medical evacuation. This meant that SAS CHARLOTTE
MAXEKE had to start the passage on her own. The crew of
the DKB sadly waved her goodbye as she left the harbour
heading south.
On Monday at 1130B, “Hands to harbour
stations” was piped and members of the Ships Company
closed up at their various stations. At 1200B DKB
slipped and headed south to join up with SAS CHARLOTTE
MAXEKE (who was approximately 400 Nm ahead). The relief
was notable amongst the shipmates because they knew that
the notorious winter seas of the North Atlantic were
behind them. They looked forward to the fact that the
next alongside would hopefully be in Simon's Town.
The Ships Companies of both vessels
are certain that everyone back home is anticipating
their arrival at the end of April, especially that of
the newest addition to the Fleet, SAS CHARLOTTE MAXEKE.
