Yacht disabled half a mile off Seahouses requests assistance
At 3:15pm on Sunday 20 November, UK Coastguard requested the launch of Seahouses RNLI’s All-weather lifeboat, to go to the assistance of a 9.4 metre yacht, disabled approximately half a mile off Seahouses harbour.
The yacht had two crew aboard, and had been on passage from Eyemouth to Blyth, when is suffered engine failure in choppy sea conditions, and an increasing wind.
Local Coastguard shore based teams were also mobilised from Seahouses and the Seahouses All-weather lifeboat was quickly on scene, and a crewman was put aboard to help the yacht crew secure a tow line.
The yacht was then taken in tow by the lifeboat to Seahouses. On arrival, it was safely moored up, so that repairs could later be effected. Local Coastguard Rescue Officers were awaiting the yacht's arrival so they could speak with its crew and offer advice.
The previous day the same yacht had to call UK Coastguard with engine problems in the Firth of Forth, and had set away from Eyemouth today, in an attempt to reach Blyth.
Seahouses Lifeboat Operations Manager Ian Clayton commented: ‘I understand the yacht skipper has been spoken to by UK Coastguard personnel. I can only urge leisure boat owners to ensure their crafts are fully sea worthy before setting off, particularly at this time of year, when unpleasant weather conditions are forecast. While this was a simple tow in job, it could have been more complicated if he had not been so close to Seahouses when his engine failed.’
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For more information please contact Ian Clayton, RNLI Volunteer Press Officer, on: 07981 069177.
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