Brigitte Bardot Severely Damaged, Sends Distress Call

While in pursuit of Japanese whalers the Sea Shepherd vessel Brigitte Bardot was severely damaged by a rogue wave which cracked its hull. It has been taking on water while the storm continues to bombard it with waves, and the Steve Irwin is racing 240 miles toward the ship and its crew in response to their distress call.

Brigitte Bardot captain Jonathan Miles Renecle is confident the ship will stay afloat until the Steve Irwin arrives. However, based on the photographs they posted of the tied up hull I think there is cause for alarm. The entire crew of ten would certainly perish if left in the water for even a short period of time.

What’s more, what does this mean for the campaign? Can Operation Divine Wind meet its objectives without the Brigitte Bardot? Can it be quickly repaired and put back into this campaign?

This is a huge blow to the campaign. But most importantly, I hope for the best for the stranded crew. Here’s to a speedy rescue via the Steve Irwin. Hang on, folks!

A brief note from Captain Paul Watson aboard the Steve Irwin en route to the Southern Ocean for Operation Divine Wind.

Operation Divine Wind Needs Funding

As Japan gears up to spend $27 million on security for their whaling season—even after announcing they would call it quits—Sea Shepherd’s Operation Divine Wind is working hard to raise funds to ensure they can counter the efforts of Japanese whalers.

If you ever wanted to support Sea Shepherd monetarily, now is the time.

Photo/illustration © Sea Shepherd Conservation Society