10/12/2026
Routine Engine Start Almost Sinks Boat
Come along with Catalina Crew on an emergency call in Marina del Rey.
Today, we received an emergency call from a boat owner who had come down to do a routine start of his engines when the shaft seal hose twisted on itself and began leaking profusely. Within minutes, water was pouring into the vessel, turning a routine engine start into a potentially catastrophic situation.
Catalina Crew immediately responded with our emergency pumps and called in our diver. Within 30 minutes, using underwater Bondo, plastic bags, emergency pumps, and some quick thinking, we were able to temporarily stop the leak, get the flooding under control, and pump the water out of the vessel.
What could have ended with a boat sitting on the bottom of Marina del Rey turned into a successful emergency rescue. With the vessel stabilized and safely afloat, it can now be towed to the boatyard for an emergency haul out and proper repairs.
This is exactly why routine inspections and preventative maintenance are so important when owning a boat. A small component like a shaft seal hose can quickly turn into a major emergency, potentially costing tens of thousands of dollars in damage or even resulting in the total loss of a vessel.
You never know when an emergency might happen, and that’s exactly why Catalina Crew is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Whether it’s preventative maintenance, mechanical repairs, emergency pumping, towing, or vessel management, we’re here to make sure your boat stays in the best possible condition and above water!
Another boat saved, another potential disaster avoided, and another reminder that there’s never a dull day in Hollywood’s Harbor!
As always, Catalina Crew. Live to Tell the Tale
Catalina Crew Yachts Captain Trev 🛥️🏴☠️ Captain Sean The Qualified Captain Marina del Rey Tourism Board
