Challenging times for Hebe III

Hebe III (Czech Republic) is moored safely in Ijmuiden after losing her rudder blade yesterday.

After losing the blade her crew tried various jury rigs but could only regain limited steering due to the very strong gusty winds. After consultation, the communications ship Stern contacted the Netherlands Coastguard and it was decided to tow her in by lifeboat.  The Ijmuiden lifeboat towed her in the 45 miles arriving at 0600 L this morning.

Her crew are safe and well and seem to have handled the ordeal well. It will probably take three weeks to manufacture and fit a replacement blade so sadly she is not expected to return to the fleet until Hartlepool.

D Class vessel Hebe III is a Bermudan Sloop and a regular contender at Tall Ships Races and will be missed during the Cruise in Company and final leg of this year’ race.  

The unseasonal strong winds that have prevailed for most of the race have meant that many ships have had an extremely fast passage up to the north of Denmark with their crews enjoying some spectacular sailing. 

Pic:  Hebe III in the foreground crossing the start line

To track The Tall Ships Races fleet as they race, click here  

To view the current placings of the race, click here.

To see more images from The Tall Ships Races, click here.

The Tall Ships Races is presented by Szczecin and organised by Sail Training International.