Harwich RNLI crew saves yacht in distress amidst challenging conditions
Harwich RNLI crew saves yacht in distress amidst challenging conditions
Lifeboats News Release
The volunteers from Harwich all-weather lifeboat (ALB) launched into action on Saturday 28 April at 9:26pm to assist a 47-foot yacht facing engine failure and drifting dangerously amidst adverse weather conditions.
Responding to a distress call from a yacht six miles east of Naze Tower at Walton, the crew faced strong winds from the north-northeast, gusting at speeds of 20 to 25 knots. With the vessel being blown perilously towards the shore, the urgency of the situation was palpable.
In a coordinated effort, Dover Coastguard called for assistance, prompting the
Albert Brown, Harwich's all-weather lifeboat, to swiftly proceed to the yacht's location. With four people on board the stricken yacht, time was of the essence.
Upon reaching the scene, the situation was assessed and it was decided that the safest option was to tow the vessel. The Harwich RNLI crew, all volunteers, wasted no time in securing the yacht and initiating a tow. Despite the challenging weather conditions, the crew successfully towed the yacht to safety, guiding it into Shotley Marina.
Upon arrival at Shotley Marina, the yacht was handed over to the Coastguard Rescue Team (CRT) units from Holbrook and Shotley, ensuring the safety and well-being of all on board.
Back at the Harwich Lifeboat Station, the dedicated crew worked diligently to restore the towing gear and prepare the vessel for its next call-out, ensuring readiness for any future emergencies.
This successful outcome underscores the vital role played by the volunteer crew of Harwich RNLI and the importance of ongoing support from the community. As a charity funded entirely by donations, the RNLI relies on the generosity of the public to continue its lifesaving work.
Notes to Editor
The RNLI is the Royal National Lifeboat Institution.
Harwich RNLI is based on The Quay, Harwich. The lifeboat station was founded in 1829 and the volunteer crew use an all-weather Severn class lifeboat (ALB) The Albert Brown and B class lifeboat (ILB) Tierney, Harvey and Sonny Reid.
RNLI Media Contacts
For further information, please contact Adam Prescott, volunteer RNLI Lifeboat Press Officer 07881 286312 [email protected] or Clare Hopps, Regional Communications Manager [email protected]
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 142,700 lives.
