RNLI Rescues Yachters With Broken Mast Off Down Coast - Down ...

Newcastle and Portaferry RNLI have come to the aid of four people on 29-feet, demasted yacht.

Newcastle’s all-weather lifeboat, the Leonard Kent, was launched to help four people on a 29-feet yacht which had suffered a damaged mast approximately 20 miles south east of Newcastle.

At approximately 7.30am on Saturday (8 June) Newcastle RNLI volunteer crew were requested to launch the all-weather lifeboat to go to the aid of those on a yacht, approximately 20 miles south east of Newcastle, which had suffered damage to its mast.

Weather conditions at the time were good and the sea state was slight to moderate allowing the lifeboat to make good progress to the yacht.

Once on scene the volunteer crew assessed the situation. Given the fact that the yacht has suffered substantial damage to its mast and was unable to make safe progress, a decision was made to tow. 

Portaferry RNLI launched their B Class Atlantic lifeboat and assisted with the tow on the approach into Ardglass.

Speaking after the call out, Newcastle Lifeboat Operations Manager, Dave Bowden, said: “The crew on the yacht were able to use their onboard radio to ask for help. 

“Fair weather allowed for a short passage to the scene. 

“We towed the casualty vessel and its crew into Ardglass harbour and were assisted by Portaferry RNLI in the final stages of the tow. 

“We have recently carried out joint training exercises with Portaferry volunteer crew and during this call out both volunteer crews put that training to use along with the relationships developed during training.

“We would remind everyone planning to go to sea to plan ahead and go prepared. 

“Check tide times and the weather, wear a lifejacket or buoyancy aid and ensure everyone onboard knows how to call for help.”