Microsoft partner's yacht saves crew from sinking tug - one dies
Crewman drowns but seven others are saved by  the OCTOPUS, used by Bill Gates


South African press reported last week that the OCTOPUS, a multi-million pound mega-yacht owned by Paul Allen, Bill Gates' business partner, was involved in a dramatic sea rescue off the Port Elizabeth coast.

South Africa's National Sea Rescue Institute confirmed that the 37 metre Anchor Handling Tug DOUALA TIDE, sailing from the United Arab Emirates to be delivered to Doula, Cameroon, sank approximately 25 nautical miles off  Fish River Lighthouse in 6 to 8 metre swells with a 20 to 25 knot wind.

It is reported this occurred on Thursday, 23rd August.

One of the crew, reported to be aged around 60, drowned in the incident following a mayday from the vessel. Authorities are not sure what the initial problems with the vessel were.

Two vessels diverted to the scene, one the JAGUAR, a cargo vessel, the other the OCTOPUS.

OCTOPUS took on board seven of the crew whilst an NSRI swimmer, winched from a helicopter, saved three.

The DOUALA TIDE was formerly BRITOIL 36 and had been sold to Tidewater Marine. She  was built in 1999 and latterly carried the Vanatua flag.