Table Bay Harbour Police have opened an inquest docket following the drowning of an elderly couple at the Royal Cape Yacht Club.

Police were called to the scene early Wednesday morning, 21 May, after receiving reports that the couple, believed to be in their 70s and of Polish descent, were seen in the water.

Police divers retrieved the bodies at approximately 08:15.

Police say a post-mortem examination will be conducted to confirm the cause of death, although drowning is considered the most likely cause, adding that at this early stage, no foul play is suspected.

They have also called on members of the public who may have information that may assist the investigation to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111.

The identities of the deceased are being withheld pending formal identification and notification of next of kin.

The Royal Cape Yach Club has also released a statement, expressing their sadness at the tragic incident.

The Club says the drowning occurred between the evening of 20 May and the early hours of 21 May 2025.

The couple are both dual citizens and long-standing members of the Club.

A fellow Club member and close friend of the couple arrived to greet them aboard their vessel this morning, only to discover the wife’s body in the water.

The Marina Manager was immediately alerted and in turn contacted the South African Police Service.

Following a preliminary inspection of the vessel, all personal belongings and cell phones were found undisturbed, prompting a broader search of the area.

Tragically, the body of the husband was later discovered within the marina.

The next of kin has been contacted and they are en route to Cape Town.

RCYC General Manager Toni Mainprize has expressed the Club’s grief:

“We are devastated by this tragic loss. The couple have been loyal members of the Club since 2010, visiting annually to carry out maintenance on their boat, during which time they were granted special permission to reside onboard. Their presence in our community will be sorely missed.”