Two rescued from yacht sinking close to lifeboat station

The stricken yacht was visible from the lifeboat station between the old pier and the shore. The D class inshore lifeboat went alongside in the shallow waters and took two casualties from a yacht that was taking on water while the Shannon class lifeboat stood by. The yacht was at anchor, but damage to the hull was causing a significant ingress of water, making towing safely impossible.

The two people were recovered safely to Swanage Lifeboat Station and our local UK Coastguard volunteers were in attendance to provide some advice to them. With no further risk to life, the yacht was left at anchor whilst the owners plan recovery of their vessel.

ALB Crew: (Coxn) Gavin Steeden, John Deas, Andy Redout, Sam Aggas, Fergus Holley, Felix Williams

ILB Crew: (Helm) Darren Tomes, Matthew Steeden, Phil Palmer
Shore Crew: (Head Launcher) Andy Redout, (Winchman) John Deas, Adam O'Neill, Archie Burgess

Key facts about the RNLI

The RNLI charity 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 146,000 lives.

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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.