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Yarmouth RNLI launches in dense fog to 60ft catamaran
On Sunday 8 November, Yarmouth RNLI was launched by HM Coastguard to assist a 60ft catamaran that had suffered a power failure, situated east of Newtown Creek.
Shortly after 6pm, the volunteer crew were paged to assist the stranded catamaran, following reports of a machinery power failure. The yacht had recently been delivered from the United States by cargo ship.
With extremely dense fog engulfing the Isle of Wight and the Solent, and uncertainty over how long the vessel's remaining power would last, the decision was made to remove the yacht from potential danger to other vessels within the area.
With the tide flooding, the Coxswain carefully assessed the situation, and establishing an alongside tow was the best course of action given the risks relating to the vessel's condition and location. The stricken vessel was then escorted to Cowes, which was the nearest suitable safe harbour, capable of accommodating the 60ft catamaran.
Ventnor Coastguard Rescue Team was dispatched to assist with mooring the vessel on arrival.
With the casualty vessel safely secured and all persons accounted for, Yarmouth RNLI Lifeboat was stood down and returned to Yarmouth Harbour.
Notes to editors
- Images include Severn Class Lifeboat, 17-41 on passage to Cowes Harbour.
- May 2026 marked Yarmouth Station's 102nd year in service.
RNLI Media Contacts
Hebe Gregory-Pimm, Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer for RNLI South East, [email protected]
Stella Sims, RNLI Regional Communications Manager for London and South East England, 07483 316675, [email protected]
Sam Haddad, RNLI Regional Communications Manager for London and South East England, 01202 137713, [email protected]
Julie Rainey, RNLI Regional Communications Lead for London and South East England, 07827 358256, [email protected]
RNLI Press Office, 01202 336789, [email protected]
Key facts about the RNLI
The RNLI is the charity that saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 146,700 lives.
Learn more about the RNLI
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Contacting the RNLI - public enquiries
Members of the public may contact the RNLI on 0300 300 9990 (UK) or 1800 991802 (Ireland) or by email.