Stolen Yacht Drama Off Kent Coast Ends in Rescue
A yacht stolen from a boatyard in Faversham on 1 October 2022 sparked a major hunt along the Kent coastline. Officers from the Swale district launched a search with a police helicopter but initially came up empty-handed.
Stranded 10 Miles Off Margate
Nearly two weeks later, on 16 October, the yacht’s owner reported spotting his missing boat around 10 miles off the coast of Margate. Specialist officers from the Search and Marine Unit swung into action, using radar to track and recover the vessel.
16-Mile Tow Back to Safety
The yacht had run aground on a sandbank near the entrance to the Thames Estuary. PC Ben Bowler said, “We towed the yacht for 16 miles until we reached the river Swale, which took around two-and-a-half hours in choppy seas. It was safely brought to shore at around 1pm on Monday 17 October.”
The 19-foot Seawych Yacht was returned to its grateful owner, who was relieved to recover his prized possession — including his worldly belongings still on board.
Warning to Boat Owners
PC Bowler added, “Kent has some of the busiest, most congested shipping lanes in the world and it was only by good fortune that the yacht did not cause danger to any commercial vessels that were passing through.”
He warned owners to secure their boats properly, use security markings, and stay vigilant against theft — a rare but serious problem in the area.
Have Info? Contact Police Now
Anyone with information about the yacht theft urged to call 01843 222289 quoting reference 46/190666/22. You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or via their online form.
