Minister Willie Aucamp has ordered the urgent evacuation of South Africa’s Marion Island overwintering team following critical delays to the SA Agulhas II relief voyage caused by a shortage of specialised polar fuel.

The research vessel is set to depart for the sub-Antarctic island after helicopters successfully landed on board as weather conditions cleared in Cape Town. The team stationed at the remote base is expected to be evacuated within days, with the minister prioritising their wellbeing over logistical concerns.

“The voyage delays were caused by the unavailability of crucial fuel products that are mixed with normal diesel and are used to create the special polar diesel required to keep the base running within extremely low outside temperatures that would crystallise normal diesel,” Aucamp said.

“As we are unsure when these fuel products will be available, we cannot wait any longer at the expense of the wellbeing of our team. Our people’s lives come first.”

The SA Agulhas II departed on 14 May and reached Marion Island on Monday, 18 May. The crew will spend approximately three to five days at the base before returning to South Africa on 28 May, weather permitting.

The operation’s timeline depends heavily on sea and weather conditions both at Marion Island and during the voyage. The island, located in the southern Indian Ocean approximately 1 770 km southeast of Cape Town, is one of South Africa’s three remote research bases.

Aucamp has instructed the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment to provide regular updates throughout the evacuation. He will personally debrief the overwintering team upon their return to improve future operations at South Africa’s remote research stations.

The minister assured the public and the families of team members that authorities are working around the clock to ensure their safe return.

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