RNLI Lifeboats Spring Into Action in Sussex Yacht Rescue
Volunteer lifeboat crews from Newhaven and Eastbourne RNLI pulled off a bold rescue after a 14-metre yacht lost steering in choppy seas off the Sussex coast.
Distress Call Interrupts Training
At 10:48am on Sunday, March 1, Newhaven’s all-weather lifeboat crew were mid-way through a towing exercise when they got the urgent call. A yacht, drifting two and a half miles from Newhaven harbour, was powerless after losing steering.
With two of the three crew suffering severe seasickness, the yacht was dangerously close to shore. Rough seas made evacuation too risky, so the lifeboat team swiftly decided to secure a tow and bring the vessel to safety.
First Taste of Rescue Action for New Volunteers
This daring mission marked a milestone for two lifeboat volunteers. Marty McDonald McCrossan earned his first shout, while Emmeline Ravilious carried out her first rescue since qualifying as Tier 2 crew.
Joint Effort Brings Yacht to Calm Waters
To get the yacht out of danger, rescuers aimed for Eastbourne’s Sovereign Harbour. Eastbourne RNLI launched their lifeboat at 12:36pm and linked up with Newhaven crew just off Eastbourne Pier, where calmer seas made safe harbour a reality.
The quick thinking and teamwork of volunteer crews saved lives and stopped what could have been a disaster off the Sussex coast.
