Historic cruiser Ruamano found

10:30 AM

The historic cruiser Ruamano, which was abandoned in heavy seas on New Year's Day, has been spotted by a logging ship about 120 miles west of Hokianga.

The 13-metre vessel was on a round trip of New Zealand to promote the Heart Foundation when the crew lost control of her in five metre swells that were pulling them out into the Tasman.

Marine surveyor Mike Austin, who is working for the vessel's insurers, said the Ruamano was damaged, but still afloat.

He said marine law means the vessel can now be recovered for salvage by anyone prepared to risk towing her back to shore.

The crew of the Ruamano had to abandon ship in heavy seas soon after starting a circumnavigation of the country, and were rescued by a cargo ship that took them to Korea.

- IRN

Herald Online Marine News