Northern Territory Police are again reminding boaters of the importance of having sufficient supplies and safety equipment after a search and rescue operation off Pirlangimpi late yesterday.

Superintendent Daniel Shean said a group of five males – including a 7-year-old boy – left to go turtle hunting about 9am Saturday in a 4m dinghy.

“They had a small supply of water and some snacks, but they suffered a mechanical failure just before lunchtime and weren’t able to fix it.”

Superintendent Shean said the group managed to beach the vessel near the Dudwell Creek System about 25km from Pirlangimpi.

“When they had not returned, family members raised the alarm about 6.30pm. The family told Police the vessel was not equipped with life jackets or the appropriate maritime safety equipment.

“By now, a member of the party had begun walking through bushland to get mobile phone reception, and he made contact about 7.30pm.”

A Police boat from Pirlangimpi station was launched and the group was found about 10.20pm

“All appeared to be in good spirits, however they were all suffering dehydration and signs of exposure,” Superintendent Shean said.

“This is a reminder that when going out on a vessel to always have the adequate marine safety equipment, as well as ample food and water.

“If the group had an EPIRB, their rescue would likely have come several hours earlier.”

All were taken to the Pirlangimpi clinic, where they were cleared.