The search for Graham Howes, a 38-year-old kitesurfer from Bloubergstrand, ended tragically on Monday when his body was recovered at sea by the crew of a local motor yacht.
Graham Howes recovered at sea after extensive search
Howes had gone missing on Sunday afternoon, 7 September 2025, after being last seen offshore near Eden on the Bay at about 13:00 (SAST).
He was wearing a black wetsuit and riding a blue-and-black kiteboard with a white kite sail marked with red writing. When he did not return, his family raised the alarm, triggering a large-scale search.
‘“Condolences are conveyed to family and friends of Graham Howes, who was located and recovered at sea, sadly deceased, during ongoing search efforts on Monday,” NSRI spokesperson Craig Lambinon said in a statement.
The search for Howes began on Sunday evening at 19:59 (SAST) when the NSRI Melkbosstrand duty crew was activated. Multiple rescue agencies joined forces, covering land, sea, and air operations.
The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) deployed several rescue craft, including Rotary’s Gift, DHL Deliverer, Spirit of Day, and Spirit of DHL II, to comb the waters. Shoreline patrols used quad bikes and coordinated with community volunteers, while Metro EMS drone teams carried out infrared aerial sweeps.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) opened a missing person case, and the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre issued alerts to vessels in the area. Telkom Maritime Radio Services also relayed distress information to passing ships.
On Monday morning, Howes’s kite sail and board were recovered at sea, and by afternoon, his body was found northwest of Bloubergstrand, near the search area extending toward Dassen Island.
Community support and family privacy
The disappearance of Graham Howes prompted a strong response from Cape Town’s kite-surfing community. Local residents, fishing vessels, and private boats joined the official search, while social media saw an outpouring of concern and solidarity.
Many shared memories of Howes as a passionate kitesurfer and respected member of the Bloubergstrand community. Neighborhood watch groups also mobilised to assist search efforts along the coastline.
After his recovery, Lambinon commended the combined rescue teams, saying:
“The extensive efforts by all involved in this incredible effort that has helped the family with closure is commended.”
The body of Graham Howes is now in the care of the South African Police Service and the Department of Health’s forensic pathology services. His family has requested privacy during this time.
