Newhaven RNLI & Eastbourne RNLI launch joint rescue for stricken yacht

The 14-metre sailing yacht, which had three passengers on board and was around two and a half miles from Newhaven harbour, had suffered steering failure and was drifting towards shore in rough seas.

Compounding the situation, two of the three casualties on board had become unwell with seasickness and were unable to safely manage the vessel. With limited steerage, reduced crew capability, and sea conditions too rough to safely evacuate the casualties the decision was made to request RNLI assistance to ensure the safety of all on board and the tow was undertaken.

The crew from Newhaven RNLI included Emmeline Ravilious having recently completed the next stage of her all-weather lifeboat crew training (tier 2) and Marty McDonald McCrossan on his first shout. Brighton marina was not an option to tow the boat to, due to the tides and heavy weather, but Eastbourne marina confirmed they could take in the yacht.

At 12:36pm Eastbourne’s all-weather lifeboat ‘Esme Anderson’ launched and made best speed towards Beachy Head to rendezvous with the casualty vessel and take over the tow from Newhaven RNLI.

Unfortunately, due to sea conditions being rough at the original meeting point, meaning the transfer of towlines was potentially unsafe, both lifeboats repositioned approximately two miles off Eastbourne Pier where conditions were calmer and safer for all involved.

Newhaven lifeboat released their towline allowing Eastbourne lifeboat to safely pass their own lines to the yacht. The yacht was then safely towed to the shelter of Sovereign Harbour and passed into the care of harbour staff once through the locks.

The casualties were assessed and required no further medical attention.

James Wishman, senior station technician at Eastbourne RNLI, said: ‘It was a challenging operation with the sea state making conditions difficult, but the crew performed brilliantly throughout. Working alongside RNLI Newhaven, it was a real team effort — one crew, working together seamlessly to get the job done safely and professionally.’

ends

Notes to editors

Pic credit: Newhaven RNLI

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