Hayling Island Lifeboats Save Yacht Crews Twice in One Day
The Hayling Island RNLI crews were on high alert this Saturday, responding to two separate yacht emergencies within hours.
Dismasted Yacht Rescued South of Hayling Island
At 13:25, a Pan Pan distress alert came in from a yacht that had been dismasted south of Hayling Island. The RNLI launched their Atlantic 85 lifeboat, arriving quickly to find the crew had already recovered the broken mast and most sails.
The D Class inshore lifeboat went ahead to Sparkes Marina to prepare a berth. The yacht managed to sail under its own power and was safely escorted into the marina by the Atlantic 85, with help from the D Class crew. No further assistance was needed, and both lifeboats returned to base.
Evening Rescue: Yacht Stuck on Marker Buoy with Eight People and a Dog
Just before 19:00, the Coastguard called for a second launch after a report of a yacht with eight people and a dog onboard stuck on a marker buoy, unable to free itself.
Both lifeboats raced to the scene. The Atlantic 85 successfully freed the yacht, but the skipper reported stiff steering and requested an escort to Haslar Marina in portsmouth/" title="Portsmouth" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Portsmouth Harbour.
The D Class lifeboat returned to base while the Atlantic 85 escorted the yacht across Hayling Bay. At Langstone Harbour’s entrance, the Portsmouth RNLI crew met them with their Atlantic 85 lifeboat and took over, guiding the vessel safely into Haslar Marina.
RNLI Hails Teamwork and Urges Safety
“This was a great example of teamwork between our Hayling crews and the Portsmouth RNLI. Both incidents could have escalated without prompt action. Thankfully, both yachts and everyone aboard, including the dog, are safe and sound.”
The RNLI reminds all boaters to maintain their vessels and carry essential safety equipment before heading out to sea.
