Fishguard RNLI volunteers launch to yacht 20 miles offshore

The information provided was that a 38ft yacht with four persons on board had become becalmed, meaning unable to sail due to lack of wind. The vessel, which had also suffered engine failure, was at risk due to the location and proximity to larger vessels using the traffic separation scheme between Wales and the Republic of Ireland.

With no other suitable vessels in the area able to provide assistance, the lifeboat made best speed to the location. Once on scene, an assessment was carried out by the boats officers in line with RNLI policies. It was determined that due to the location and risk it posed to other vessels, the safest course of action would be to take the yacht under tow to Fishguard, the nearest safe haven. Once in the bay, the casualty vessel was taken to a safe place where it was left at anchor and the lifeboat returned to station, 5 hours after first reaching the casualty.

Fishguard RNLI volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer, Cedwyn Rogers, said:

'When arriving on scene, our lifeboat crew are trained to assess the situation and determine the most efficient and effective way to preserve life.

'Towing can be one of the riskiest activities for which our volunteers train, and the safety of both those we rescue and our crew is our highest priority. In this case, conditions were favourable, and after assessing the risk to those on board the yacht, as well as the potential hazard it posed to other water users if left adrift, it was determined that taking the vessel under tow was the best course of action.'