South African Safari Guide Rescues Polish Tourist Caught in Rip Currents at Jabula Beach in St Lucia

A 24-year-old South African safari guide has earned widespread praise for helping rescue a Polish tourist caught in strong rip currents at Jabula Beach in St Lucia.

The dramatic incident unfolded on Monday, highlighting how quick thinking and bravery can make all the difference in a life-or-death situation.

Melinda Snyman, station commander of the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) in St Lucia, confirmed that the emergency was reported at 13:36 on February 9, prompting an immediate response from rescue swimmers.

Alert Eyewitness and Swift NSRI Response

An observant bystander spotted the tourist struggling in the surf and located the NSRI emergency number on a pink rescue buoy pole, contacting the NSRI Emergency Operations Centre (EOC).

Rescue swimmers and support crews were mobilized, ready with vehicles and a rescue craft at Station 40.

By the time NSRI personnel arrived on the scene, the tourist had already been brought safely to shore by a Good Samaritan.

Medical assessment by NSRI confirmed that he was unharmed and required no further treatment.

Resourcefulness Saves the Day

The primary rescuer, Reuben van der Nest from Hoedspruit, was visiting the beach with his wife Petra when he noticed the man in distress while snorkelling.

He initially looked for the standard pink rescue buoy but discovered it had been removed, likely due to theft.

Suggested Readings (News continues below)

Authorities Detain Man Near Mexican Border in Rio Rico Arizona in Connection With Nancy Guthrie Kidnapping Investigation

Malica Malherbe Becomes First Team South Africa Athlete to Compete at 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina

Fabian Hurzeler Faces Fan Backlash and Navigates Managerial Pressure at Brighton After Home Defeat Against Crystal Palace in Premier League

Nigerian Union Demands Justice After Fatal Shooting of Emeka Uzor During Television Filming in Johannesburg

Undeterred, Van der Nest and a beachgoing family found a two-metre-long wooden log to serve as an improvised flotation device.

Joined by another man — believed to be part of the tourist’s group — the rescuers entered the water, used the log to support the struggling swimmer, and guided him safely back to shore.

NSRI commended both Van der Nest and the unidentified man for their courageous actions, noting that their combined efforts were crucial in saving the tourist’s life.

The eyewitness who raised the alarm was also praised for their quick response.

NSRI Issues Appeal Over Missing Rescue Buoys

Following the incident, NSRI has appealed to the public not to remove pink rescue buoys from their designated poles unless in genuine emergencies.

The organisation stressed that these flotation devices are critical to saving lives and their absence can delay life-saving interventions.

Rip currents are notoriously dangerous along South Africa’s coastline, especially in the surf zones near St Lucia, and incidents like this serve as a reminder of the need for vigilance and preparedness while enjoying the ocean.

What’s Next?

NSRI continues to monitor beach safety in the St Lucia area and encourages swimmers to always be aware of local conditions, including strong currents.

Education campaigns on water safety are ongoing, and NSRI urges tourists and residents alike to respect safety equipment and follow instructions from lifeguards.

Reuben van der Nest has been recognised as a hero locally, and his actions have sparked conversations about the importance of improvisation, community response, and preparedness in water-related emergencies.

Summary

A Polish tourist caught in rip currents at Jabula Beach, St Lucia, was rescued thanks to the quick thinking of South African safari guide Reuben van der Nest and another beachgoer.

With the standard NSRI pink rescue buoy missing, they improvised with a two-metre wooden log to bring the swimmer safely ashore.

The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) praised the rescuers and the eyewitness who raised the alarm.

The incident underscores the importance of public adherence to safety equipment and awareness of ocean hazards.

NSRI also issued an appeal for pink buoys to remain in place unless needed in genuine emergencies.