The bilge is full, the decks are swamped and you’re going down fast, so who you gonna call?
If your maritime emergency is taking place anywhere in the Oceanside area, chances are you’ll be looking for a speedy visit by CCGS Cape Cockburn. They may or may not be able to fix what ails your boat, but they can certainly rescue anyone who needs it.
The 14.6-metre, 33.8-ton Canadian Coast Guard Cape-class motor lifeboat, which was commissioned in 2003, calls French Creek Harbour its home port and is the Shipping News boat of the week.
Propelled by two Caterpillar 3196 diesel engines, the Cape Cockburn can reach a speed of 25 knots and has a cruising range of 200 nautical miles. The self-righting design of the vessel allows it to withstand the most severe conditions at sea, allowing its four crew members to mount a rescue under the most challenging weather conditions.
Cape Cockburn was named after the cape located in the Malaspina Strait, 50 kilometres to the north of French Creek on the Sunshine Coast.
• Santa may not have any presents specifically earmarked for the local Navy League and Sea Cadets, but that’s just fine, says Padre Brian Kirby.
That’s because a number of other groups and organizations have stepped up to take his place.
Leading the armada of aid was the Parksville Qualicum Elks Lodge #589, which made a donation of $500 for both organizations.
As well, the Parksville, Qualicum Beach and Lantzville branches of the Royal Canadian Legion donated funds to the cadets.
“The Oceanside Navy League Branch is most appreciative of the generosity of all of these organizations in supporting our wonderful Cadets,” Kirby said.
• The ferry terminal at Duke Point will be out of commission for quite some time after the Coastal Inspiration slammed into the ferry terminal Tuesday.
BC Ferries spokespeople said the terminal could be out of service for several months, while the ship could be unavailable for as long as a month, because replacement parts have to come from Germany.
Two people were slightly injured in the crash, which remains under investigation.
To ensure service to Vancouver Island is disrupted as little as possible, service will be bumped up at Departure Bay.