Coast Guard Motor Lifeboat vs. big wave Photo Gallery by Gary Robertshaw at pbase.com

Coast Guard Motor Lifeboat vs. big wave

Large storm swells reached Morro Bay California on December 4, 2007, bringing 15-20 foot swells with some plus sets.
A U.S. Coast Guard 47-foot Motor Life Boat was out for practice maneuvers in the large surf, which is not unusual.
However, a large wave hit that was probably more than they bargained for...at least it's the hardest I've ever seen them get hit.
The air was filled with mist, and they were quite distant, so at times were just a shadow in the mist. I've adjusted them for better visibility, however the quality of the photos is not the greatest due to the above conditions, and futile attempts to keep the lens dry.

Note on comments: Comments are very much appreciated, but please keep them appropriate for a photo gallery. This is not the place to solve issues or second-guess anyone's judgment. Thanks.
Regarding the waves: This was a set of 2 or possibly 3 waves that were significantly larger than any that had preceded them. I had waited, expecting some more "normal" photos of more normal big-wave Coast Guard action, and the waves weren't really large enough for the photos I wanted...probably mostly in the 15-foot range.
I did see these approaching in the distance, however I had a considerably higher vantage point than they did. By the time they could spot these waves from the boat, I seriously doubt they had many choices as to what action to take. The first wave of the set passed by them without incident, but the second, much larger one followed very quickly. The fact that no one was hurt or killed, and that the boat made it through and was immediately operational really attests to the competence of the crew and the equipment.

Reprints or information You can contact me via email at gary at rshaw dot com for print or publication information. Prints Update: Prints coming soon.

This doesn't look so good...	"Hang on..."	Ouch!	They're in there somewhere
Vertical	This is not looking good...	A bit worrisome...	They're up!!!
Time to go home...	Meanwhile, inside the harbor...	Escort	"Boy, do we have a tale to tell..."

post a comment

SailorPaul		14-Jul-2008 05:40
Reply: $6 million ...Gues i need to get me one of them boats. how much they go for so i can go play in the surf

Guest		11-Jun-2008 19:42
What size boat does the coast guard use for a small crew boat and how many make up a small crew?

Corey		05-Jun-2008 01:42
Any idea if we can get full-res pictures? I would love to make a wallpaper out of a couple of these. Much appreciated, fantastic shots!

Joe Brandner		26-May-2008 03:22
to BM1 Stephen S. Shade (STAINLESS STEEL), Hi from one of your deck force, I still tell people that I was stationed with the guy who drummed on "Little bit o' Soul", and "Green Tambourine" and you said they were basic- ally the same group. You were a good coxswain and crewmember, and I only regret I was so paranoid in the Service, as you probably recall. I dug being a Coastie, and I know you did, especially in the time of Jimmie as our C inC. Take care, nice to see something from a fellow CBS crewman.

Guest		20-May-2008 21:24
I was talking to a Morro Bay Tour guide this weekend. He said he contracts out to the Coast Guard to dive and clean the barnacles of these boats. His story is that the boat driver tried to reverse to avoid the wave breaking over them but hesitated and got nailed. If you look at the second photo, it does look like there may be a wake in the front?

Floene		08-Mar-2008 01:59
Reminiscent of many scenes in "Deadliest Catch" where viewers could witness unbelievable events right before their eyes. Truth is truly stranger than fiction.

Joe Geribo		05-Mar-2008 02:40
You people are something else! God bless all of you un sung hereos, thank you for your bravery.

BIG PAPA SHADE		04-Feb-2008 18:13
BIG PAPA BM1 SHADE COOS BAY STATION 1975 TO 1979 RAN 52 INTREPID HAD 44 FTRS ALSO GOOD JOB BOYS SURF AT BASTENDORF BEACH WAS FUN WAS BOARDING OFFICER ON MV CIGALE DRUG BUST GOOD TIMES MISS IT A LOT.

Guest		03-Feb-2008 01:09
First two photos clearly show exhaust coming from the boat. Seems to me they they came off the one previous to the "big one" and landed square, but it blocked the view of this incoming wave. Believe me, they met it with power, though they only had the period in between waves to get going with a heavy boat. There is no way they would have pitched so high in the air and stayed square had they been dead stick.

Kathy Shindler		28-Jan-2008 19:18
I have watched our local station [Rogue River SARDET] hit swells much like the ones shown here. These boats were designed and built to perform in situations exactly like this.

Gary Robertshaw		28-Jan-2008 03:15
Guest, you left no way to reply to your comment. With unusual photos such as this, it's somewhat understandable that some might doubt their authenticity. The photos are 100% authentic, and the incident has been confirmed by the Coast Guard itself. While it's hard to embarrass yourself when you don't leave a name, I'd suggest investigating a bit further before making any such implications...and of course leave your name so we know you stand behind what you say.

Guest		24-Jan-2008 13:01
"I know a guy" said The boat driver was square to the power of the swell and ended up full throttle into it, well done. But the photo shows the boat stationary in the water, no turbulance at the back end and no bow wave. Sadly something does not ring true about this series of images....

Jack Heinlein		17-Jan-2008 04:50
Gosh that was real great. Hanging around too many Jarheads lately with the Patriot Guard Riders..how about Semper Paratus.. Rough day (Shaking head)

Jack Heinlein		17-Jan-2008 04:42
As a former Coastie in the 60's I went out on Ocean Station Patrols Bravo, Charlie and Delta on the Cutters Ingham and the Chincoteague. One was a 311 foot cutter and the other 327 feet. They were close in size to a Destroyer Escort but not made to roll over etc. We saw some pretty rough seas but experienced a 59 degree roll once. I was below deck in the boiler room. The guys topside on the bridge experienced the worst. The only wilder ride than that has been my aviation career since 9/11 and the constantly increasing price of fuel LOL. I have to hand it to the deck hands that when the seas allowed they would tie lifelines around themselves and break the ice off the windward side of the ship with baseball bats and use fire hoses supplying heated sea water so we could get on an even keel. We had to stay on station regardless of the storms. Great photos, thanks for sharing .. Semper Fidelis

Guest		16-Jan-2008 21:50
I believe there are three 52's still in service. My son drives one (INVINCIBLE) at Westport, Washington and there is one at Station Newport, Oregon (VICTORY?) and another but I'm not sure where in the 13th District. Might be at the School.

Guest		11-Jan-2008 03:41
Have a question. Are all 52's still in commision? I loved the Victory years ago. A nice heavy boat. Also the 47201 is for sale from a private party.

Bart French		10-Jan-2008 05:20
Serving in the Coast Guard for four years (67-71) as an Engineman on MLBs was a time of my life I look back on proudly.. A couple of the boats I served on were the 52312 (Victory) that is still in service at Yaquina Bay, Newport Oregon and the 44300 which is now on display at the Maritime Museum in Astoria, OR.. The 44300 was the first Motor Life Boat of her kind to be put into service and acted as our tool to save property and many lives in the high seas off the Oregon coast.. Justifiably she has been honored for her part in these sometimes harrowing deeds of the Coast Guard.. The ole Coast Guard saying "We have to go out but we don't have to come back " still holds true.. I've not had the opportunity to board one of the new 47s but they look to be a beautifully updated version of the earlier 44s.. Keep up the undaunted spirit guys and gals.. "Semper Paratus" Bart French (EN2)

Laura		06-Jan-2008 03:10
As sailors out of Morro Bay, all I we can say is we're thankful the Coasties are practicing what they do best, search and rescue. Way to go, guys! Thanks for being there.

LIMA-113		02-Jan-2008 16:41
We still get the job done. ex -coastie 1982 - 1988.

Texas Guest		02-Jan-2008 15:59
American Youth . . . . just stand out of their way and let them do what they do best . . awe the world.

CoastieGirl		01-Jan-2008 19:26
Amazing! I myself being a coastie spend numerous hours on a 47' MLB daily,considering my Heavy Weather Search and Rescue station has two of them. All things considered i have yet to experience anything like this and well i hope i don't. To the Crew of this 47' you guys did an amazing job doing what you are trained to do. People are always going to say you could have done something different but they have no idea what its like to be in that position. Keep doing what you are doing! Semper Paratus

Guest		01-Jan-2008 19:04
no thanks I will stay on the ground. And sit this one out.

Cody Brazier		31-Dec-2007 15:06
Brings back memories!! I was the Engineering Chief Petty Officer at Motor Lifeboat Station Golden Gate...had 44 footers, then 47 footers. Did lots of training in the surf...exciting!!!

Jack		30-Dec-2007 18:29
The Real NAVY jack

William Menke		29-Dec-2007 15:55
Awesome. My brother in law tried to captain one of these into a rollover some years ago off Washington, but was unsuccessful. I think given these waves, he might have had more luck. Who needs planes when we have boats like this!

Robin		29-Dec-2007 11:25
As a Mom of a MK3... I am so proud of all the Coasties... They do not get the attention that they should...

guest		27-Dec-2007 18:05
AMAZING rudy 2

MICoastieMom		27-Dec-2007 17:03
I am the proud Coatie mom of an MK2. Thank you so much for spotlighting the brave work that these unsung Guardians of the Seas do! Semper paratus!

Guest		27-Dec-2007 05:20
wooo GO Us Coasties.... We Rock :)

Ernest Hopkins		25-Dec-2007 19:40
I was fortunate to experience many facets of the Coast Guard: weather ship, buoy tender, lifeboat station and air station. Always amazed at how much good the Coast Guard does and how little recognition and funding they receive. Apparently, interdiction of drugs has garnered more importance than the saving of lives and property. One pays for the other? Proud Coastie from 1960-1967. Semper Paratus. Ernie Hopkins

Wendy O		23-Dec-2007 01:38
Hi there Gary! This is an amazing series, nice job capturing this very dramatic event.

Brandon		22-Dec-2007 02:35
Just remember the coast guard has the hardest boot camps, harder than the Jar Heads. Now you know why. These self-up-righting boats are awesome. I want to go for a ride. Thanks USCG for your service. BLG

Guest		22-Dec-2007 01:26
Holy Moly, that is serious pucker factor. One can't say enough about the skipper and the skill of the crew. Say nothing about the MLB and how it is built. I am proud to have the USCG on duty.

Capt "D"		21-Dec-2007 06:23
Bet you were glad to be on leave tom!!!

Capt. Tim Griffis		21-Dec-2007 02:10
A 100 Ton Ship's Master since 1970 out of Sault Ste. Marie, MI, I've watched the USCG maintain the waterways and provide water safety and rescue services for many years. November 22, 1975 when the Edmond C. Fitzgerald failed to respond to the Anderson, we went searching along the shore off Whitefish point. Now, my "Great Neice" is a "Coastie" on the Munro, working the West Coast, Dutch Harbor and the Bearing Sea during the crab harvest. They've worked the South Pacific and are now enjoying a well earned break around the "big island". I'm an Air Force veteran, but would take the USCG if I had it to do over. Keep up the good work you make us proud.

BILL MCGANN		21-Dec-2007 01:28
BILL MCGANN THE COASTIES HAVE ALWAYS TRAINED TO PERFORM IN THE WORST POSSIBLE SEA CONDITIONS BECAUSE THAT IS WHEN "STUFF HAPPENS". I FIRST HEARD THAT "YOU GOTTA GO OUT, BUT YOU DON'T HAVE TO COME BACK" FROM BMC BIERNE AT CAPE MAY IN SEPTEMBER OF 1952. IT HAS ALWAYS BEEN THAT WAY, AND IT WILL NEVER CHANGE. WE HAD THE OLD 36' "MONOMOY" SURF BOAT AT THAT TIME, AND IT PERFORMED BEYOND EXPECTATIONS OFF BOSTON IN THE WINTER OF 1951-1952. NO MATTER HOW GOOD THE PLATFORM IS, IT'S THE DRIVER THAT MAKES IT WORK. THAT IS WHY TOM CLANCY CALLED THE COAST GUARD THE "LAST BEST SCHOOL OF SEAMANSHIP". PRIDE, PROFESSIONALISM, AND PREPARATION. "SEMPER PARATUS"

Michael Healy		21-Dec-2007 00:29
My Daughter is a Coastie. We Americans can be very proud of these brave young people helping to protect our beloved country. God bless The United States Coast Guard.

Bryce Mirtle, former squid		20-Dec-2007 09:43
The "Puddle Pirates" rarely get the credit they deserve, these photos capture the reality & danger they face doing their jobs!! God bless the "Puddle Pirates" of the United States!!

Guest		20-Dec-2007 00:12
What a testimony of the Coast Guard's 47' MLB! Hopefully the "salts" in the surfman community will rally around MB's crew and command.

Tom Joyce Boatswaine 2ns		19-Dec-2007 22:32
I served in the Coast Guard in and around Alaska and the seas in the Gulf would get so high they looked like mountains. I was proud of my association with that branch of the military and would do it again in a flash given the opportunity. Semper Paratus is their theme and they live it by doing the rescues they execute.

Guest		18-Dec-2007 19:22
I support the crew of Morro Bay!! Any Surfman worth his salt has been in the same position, accidentally taking a huge series. If any Surfman says different they are lying. All Surfman have been in that position to say, it is getting bigger, and we need to get out of the surf zone. You only come to this realization, after you took the 20�+ break. For as much as we talk about being Surfman, and pride that goes with that title, we sure eat our own!! I think all Surfman past and present have been in the same position at one time or another, we just did not have someone taking great pictures of it.

Guest		18-Dec-2007 18:50
This reminds me of the sequence of shots when George C. Scott tried to exit Morro Bay harbor without a self-righting vessel in the 96' range.. Nice Shots !

Bob Nicholson		18-Dec-2007 16:24
An amazing sequence! Having served in the U.S. Coast Guard, I was never on one of these self-righting boats, but I can tell you that the boats are very durable and designed to completely roll over and fully recover to continue the mission. The crews are caged and strapped in, and it is a rough ride. Even though the crews are fully trained, the size and power of such waves makes this type of service potentially very hazardous.

Jerry Gallagher		18-Dec-2007 13:31
These men & women & truly the finest masters of the sea. Its very comforting that you know they will rescue you no matter what the seas will put in front of them. Brave is not a word that is good enough for these people. God Bless!

Becky		18-Dec-2007 03:34
Working on 5th generation in MB all the while watching our Coast Guard do some amazing things and saving many lives. So grateful that all aboard can tell the tale. Way to go!!!!!

Guest		18-Dec-2007 01:54
CRAZY!!! We should be proud of our boys out there looking out for us! My son is on that boat and very proud of him. KarenS

Guest		17-Dec-2007 22:15
i need to get me one of them boats. how much they go for so i can go play in the surf

Guest		17-Dec-2007 21:41
I, as well as my family am very proud of my son, David who is in the Coast Guard. May God watch over each and every member as they strive to save lives and protect our coast lines.

Guest		17-Dec-2007 02:03
What an amazing set of pictures. Way to go to the USCG for all there hard work and hard training. Capt. Rob

Guest		16-Dec-2007 05:24
Mr. Robertshaw. Thank you. An amazing series of stills!!! Your equipment, timing and professionalism brought about a sequence unlike any I've ever seen. Did I say Amazing? An understatement.

Feeling safer at night		15-Dec-2007 23:59
shots came out amazing... good catch!! Go coast guard, those guys kick ass. i'd let them save me any day.

Guest		15-Dec-2007 22:43
First off it's the crew then the platform, second prior to judgment, every experienced boat operator knows that unusual series do come check historical facts. I have been in the Oregon area for 11years and on both sides of the bar and have seen a 30' come from 15' series its how wave trains form and re-form. It's getting back on your feet that wiping your eyes and pushing out (what we call training). Good Recovery!

Allen French		15-Dec-2007 22:22
Great pics. Reminded me of the time when I was on the icebreaker Eastwind in March 1961 coming out of the antarctic trying to make our way north in steady 120 knot winds with 80-90 ft seas. Took four days to get clear. Now I know what we looked like. What a crew and what a job. Nice going guys.

COL J		15-Dec-2007 16:16
Thanks for the great pictures and commentary. As a retired Army officer and Coast Guard Auxiliarist I am privileged to work with these brave lads on a frequent basis and the quiet professionalism, competence and dedication to duty they show in all they do is truly inspiring. In the Army we take training very seriously and training that is not realistic is considered a waste of time and resources. Our guiding principal was always , "train as you fight". In terms of realistic training, the Coast Guard "gets it", as evidenced by these pictures. Well done, all. My son departs tomorrow for Coast Guard basic training at Cape May, NJ and he will strike for boatswain's mate. In a few months time hopefully he will be on one of these boats. I envy him. Semper paratus!

Guest		15-Dec-2007 01:52
While those coasties may not have "planned" to roll their boat, I certainly feel better that they CLEARLY know what the heck they're doing in that kind of surf. Any of us who venture forth into the big water feel alot better knowing that we have highly trained professional like these guys ready to help us out when we pull our own stupid manuvers. Very cool pics!

Guest		14-Dec-2007 19:40
Guest We thank God for looking over the crew,our Grandson was on this boat.God bless you--Job well done.

Guest		14-Dec-2007 16:44
BALLS !!!

Chuck USCG "64-68"		13-Dec-2007 16:39
...did anyone get to keep the "fish" ?

Guest		13-Dec-2007 16:29
I've a question for the CG (or ex-CG) folks here. I've been through some pretty good rollers in a pretty small open-bow boat. My technique has always been to point the bow toward the oncoming wave and hit full reverse throttle. This way, by the time the wave reaches the boat, it is traveling at a pretty good speed in reverse and takes the wave much more gently than hitting it head-on at forward speed. The boat just sorta rides up to and over the crest in slo-mo with very little drama. I just wonder how that technique would work on a larger scale. It doesn't look like there would've been enough room between the surf and shore to perform such a maneuver in this sequence of shots.

Guest		13-Dec-2007 12:18
I'm thankful to god that everybody came out of this alive. These photos along with your comments will stay with these boys forever. So please show a little more professional courtesy to them. This goes out to every service member in "the Guard". Appreciate and respect eachother. The jobs and the decisions that are made in difficult times whether on land or sea will never be perfect. Imagine if there were photos for each of your mistakes posted on the internet for the world to see.

Guest		13-Dec-2007 09:20
the last comment was posted by ex ssgt. john hostkins

Guest		13-Dec-2007 09:18
im a ex-army airborne ranger infantry rifleman in the 101st airborne division aka the screaming eagles and this shit is more crazy then jumping out of a airplane during a combat jump. you coasties got balls and i respect that

Capt. Greg Rekart		13-Dec-2007 06:50
Thank you, Danforth. Your comments hit the nail on the head regardless of what else is to come of this. Having been in and out of MB during different seasons it is either the sea or the fog. These pics should wind up in every eatery and store in MB right next to the one's of George C. Scotts yacht which is blanketed in wave and froth from prow to stern. Many of us been caught thinking we should have known better... but I always got us home. Thank you for what you do.

Oregon1		13-Dec-2007 06:34
So, Mr. McKay. Bet ya the pucker factor was way up there! After I pulled my jaw off the floor only one, other name came to mind. With one raised eyebrow and half a sneer... I'm thinking of Master Chief Tom McAdams. You either loved him or hated him but he always got the job done. The difference is his stunts didn't have a photog keeping evidence! Now, for the comment from the BMC Surfman, take it through channels and quit snivveling. Semper Paratus!

Danforth		13-Dec-2007 06:12
Man, it's always interesting to see the wolves come out when the blood is fresh. Being a Surfman myself I've been in situations I'd rather not re-live and I can't think of any other Surfman that I know who can say they haven't been there too. It doesn't take much to sit back and cut apart someone's misfortune. The fact is these guys got ROCKED and they walked away. For those of you who have been there, we know that these guys are replaying this over and over in there head. This is the arena we work in and sometimes we get knocked on our ass. The question is do you stay down or get back up and go back to work. I wouldn't worry about the hardtimes to come for the boys at MB, from what it looks like they can take a punch...

Guest		13-Dec-2007 04:41
the size of that wave is un real. god speed to the crew who took it on. and thanks for what they do.im sure they had to change there undies after that one

Guest		13-Dec-2007 01:49
thank you coast guard for what you guys do. you saved my son from dieing off pigeon pt. years ago.

John J. Cameron TTCS (ret)		13-Dec-2007 00:22
That is what the Coasties have trained for for the last100 years. That is what they get paid for "YA' GOT TO GO OUT BUT YA' DON'T HAVE TO COME BACK"--I personally been a crew member is more than one similar situation on the "OLD" 36 footer. Ther was no cabin around you and no harness to hold you in. I was just hang on--The 36's would self rite in about 30 seconds. Thats the longest 30 seconds you'll ever experience--I'm long time retired from the CG but imensely proud of those that have followed us old guys--KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK--TTCS (ret)

On The Virg		13-Dec-2007 00:12
well you train for it, but when it happens its a lil scary for all. good job to the driver for doing his job after the roll and keeping his head!!! I definetly want that guy to come save my ass if my boat breaks down in some heavy surf!!!!!!

Not the Judge		12-Dec-2007 20:36
I've been in the surf for years on these boats and have never seen anything like these shots. A picture is worth a thousand words or so they say... It is easy and normal for the monday morning quarterbacks to question the judgment and risk management of training on a day that appears too big for safe training , above the op parameters and against COMDT policy. I think we should all reserve judgment until the crew has the opportunity to explain the situation. I think it is important to note (and be thankful ) that the platform & crew are not damaged or injured(to my knowledge).

CurlyGirly		12-Dec-2007 20:13
Ya, MB Coasties! Kick'n some big ass in my back yard. I am glad everyone is safe...bummed I couldn't have joined in the fun. Hope you don't take too much heat for it...after all I am comforted knowing that you've done this rather than only sat through theory on procedure.

Guest		12-Dec-2007 19:43
ok somebody wrote in here that it's the role over technique and that we set out to do this. that's not true, it's not something that we go out and do on purpose. yes we did go out that day to do training but rolling that boat over is not something were training to do. we go out there in the surf to practice keeping the boat UPRIGHT...

Guest		12-Dec-2007 18:48
Nice work Gary. There were a lot of photographers out there that day, and I think that you are the only one who captured the series.

Guest		12-Dec-2007 17:28
Wow, those guys are lucky they didn't get killed. Does the Coast Guard usually train in stuff that big? Did the engines quit or something? Shoudn't they have been able to drive into it and be alright?

Guest		12-Dec-2007 12:43
As a member of the UK's RNLI (lifeboat service) - respect to everyone on that boat, and well done photographer! www.redcarlifeboat.org.uk

Mike Pettis		12-Dec-2007 03:24
M. Pettis We still have a 52ft mlb in Newport " Victory". I was sad to see the 44s go away and agree with the former coxswain that it was a better boat for the big surf than the 47s. I personally have been escorted into Yaquina bay over bad bars a few times during my 30 years of crab fishing in Newport. Thank you Station Yaquina Bay.

Guest122		12-Dec-2007 02:57
Those photos are absolutly amazing! Although, if that was me in that boat I would have literaly crapped myself. Thats some scary stuff :]

Guest		12-Dec-2007 01:53
I thank God that they are all doing OK . My son in law was on this boat, lets not do this again OK guys. Awesome photos

Guest		12-Dec-2007 01:24
This is the roll over technique, I've seen this done before. It's amazing they set out to roll the boat... nice design. Wish my boat would do that.

I know a guy		11-Dec-2007 23:39
The estimates of the wave height just before impact was gurthy 22 feet on the low end and 25 feet on the high end. All crew members were wearing the required heavy weather belts that tether them to the boat and dry suits. The boat driver was square to the power of the swell and ended up full throttle into it, well done. They hit, went vertical, squatted onto the stern and rolled to port some unknown number greater than 90 degrees. All crew members immediately assumed their roll upon re-righting. Radio contact shortly after the roll was a very calm voice stating all were well and a round was being made to check all systems. All systems were satisfactory and the boats returned to Station Morro Bay in SAR stand by mode. To put it simply, it's what they do.

Guest		11-Dec-2007 23:32
THATS WHAT IM YALKING ABOUT! YEAAAH BOI!

Guest		11-Dec-2007 23:18
Wow! We have seen this down at Astoria off the Columbia River. Daddy would love to do this someday with the CG! Mom and Dad

guest		11-Dec-2007 21:18
"Mary Mother of God", and they lived.

Guest		11-Dec-2007 20:58
I will try never again to complain about "Chesapeake Chop"...great pictures..made my stomach jump. terraplane

Guest		11-Dec-2007 20:05
Folks, anyone have a good guess at the wave height? thanks.

Ben Molnar		11-Dec-2007 16:57
52 ftr in Neah Bay. Not in this CG. These pictures are amazing. I love the shots you got. I don't think you can put in words the feeling that came across that crew when they saw it coming. I have been in that hot seat before and its a rush once you get through it. Great shots. BM1 Molnar, Yaquina Bay

Guest		11-Dec-2007 00:04
BM-1 BENNETTI have run every small boat the coast guard has .I love th old 52 ft double ended surfe boat it will do 9 knots reguardles of the weather or what you are towing.I ran the last 52 ftr at neah bay washington .they are all history just like me I,m 67 years old .search and rescue work is a real adrenilen rush.That never quite goes away.Good luck to all

Team Senior Moment		10-Dec-2007 20:44
Thanks Coast Guard for being there.

bartenderdave		10-Dec-2007 04:24
Gary, that is a spectacular sequence. I live in Astoria, OR, just across the Columbia from the USCG Motor Lifeboat School, where they type-tested the first 47 footer maybe 14-15 years ago. And, what you captured is pretty typical of what they want every potential 47-driver to experience. The 47's are miles ahead of the 44's they replaced. Very tough boats.

Alan Kellogg		09-Dec-2007 07:53
There's a good reason why U S. Coast Guard boats stationed in the area have seat belts. :) Seriously, you want to talk professionalism, you talk Coast Guard.

anuschka		08-Dec-2007 22:12
Spectacular sequence! Thanks for sharing. V.

Arnold Peterschmidt		08-Dec-2007 06:14
I'll bet the guys on the boat crew would like to see these photos although the C.O. might have something to say (if he wasn't on board).

Barbara Passwater		06-Dec-2007 20:37
Way to surf! Folks on that boat won't ever forget that day!

Sara		06-Dec-2007 19:20
I was wowed by your potw... but this sequence really puts it in perspective! I'm amazed that the boat righted .... wow!

Choco		06-Dec-2007 06:21
Wow! Great catch. Glad to watch, not participate LouW

Al Haring		06-Dec-2007 00:59
Wow! I had a bad feeling in my gut just going thru the photo sequence ..... can't imagine what it must be like to actually experience it. Good shots.

Sam Stevenson		05-Dec-2007 13:07
Amazing sequence of shots - glad it turned out alright!

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