Freezing Rescue Drama as Isle of Wight Lifeboat Saves Stranded Motorcruiser
Lifeboat Launch Amid Icy Seas
Just after 8:30am today, the RNLB Alfred Albert Williams, the Tamar All-Weather Lifeboat 16-17, was scrambled by the UK Coastguard. The mission? To rescue the 30-foot motorcruiser Chandos, which lost power and was taking on water near Sandown Pier.
Race Against Harsh Conditions
Working alongside Sandown & Shanklin Inshore Rescue, the lifeboat team transferred a salvage pump and two crew members to Chandos. By 9:15am, they had hooked up a tow to Bembridge Harbour. But with 2 to 4-metre north-easterly swells crashing around them, progress was painfully slow.
Risky Harbour Entry Forces Dramatic Change of Plans
As they neared Bembridge Ledge buoy, conditions worsened. After passing the Offshore Boathouse, the crew decided it was too dangerous to enter Bembridge Harbour. Instead, they diverted the stricken cruiser to Haslar Marina in Portsmouth.
Safe Harbour and a Waiting Game
By midday, Chandos was safely moored alongside a pontoon at Haslar. The Alfred Albert Williams will stay put until roughly 2:30pm, awaiting improved slipway conditions at Bembridge before continuing.
Cold, rough seas and quick decisions highlight another heroic lifeboat rescue on the Isle of Wight.
