The planned itinerary for HRH during his visit to The Bahamas included a ‘sea-trip’ with RBDF marines, which would allow HRH some relaxed time and the opportunity to share operational experiences with the marines while at sea.
The sea trip was planned on a route from New Providence to Spanish Wells, Harbour Island and North Eleuthera mainland, with brief stops at each venue for meet and greet opportunities with the local communities.
Whilst en route to Spanish Wells in a convoy of four ‘go-fast’ vessels, the vessel on which HRH was embarked experienced some mechanical difficulties. HRH was transferred to a second vessel in the convoy which then continued on its route in accordance with the Defence Force’s contingency plans.
As this mission was one which entailed critical time lines in order to fulfill pre-planned obligations, the safe and timely action taken allowed the convoy to continue and thus meet designated times at the various venues without further incident.
The defective vessel was repaired at sea with the assistance of HMBS NASSAU, which was stationed in the area as a part of the contingency plan; and was therefore able to rejoin the convoy fifteen minutes later.
