HMS Diamond Rescues Stricken Yacht Crew
A 36-foot yacht started taking on water with five sailors on board—four battling severe seasickness. The vessel was heading northwest under motor-sail when it sent out a Mayday call.
Royal Navy’s Type 45 Destroyer Leads Dramatic Rescue
HMS Diamond was first on the scene and quickly sprung into action. Four crew members suffering from seasickness were evacuated, while the skipper stayed aboard. To help keep the yacht afloat, three of HMS Diamond’s sailors boarded to assist.
RNLI Lifeboats Join Operation to Save Crew
- Newhaven RNLI lifeboat arrived alongside HMS Diamond to care for the sick sailors.
- The lifeboat transported the casualties to the nearest safe port at Portsmouth by 5am.
- Bembridge RNLI then escorted the damaged yacht to safety as Newhaven returned after nine grueling hours on duty.
Lewis Arnold, Newhaven RNLI Coxswain, said: “The four casualties were very seasick, we needed to get them to the closest safe port.”
Commander Praises Crew’s Heroic Efforts
Commander Peter Barfoot, HMS Diamond’s Commanding Officer, branded the rescue “in keeping with the finest traditions of the service.”
“When the yacht sent out her distress call, Diamond was in the vicinity and therefore able to respond in a timely manner,” he said. “My ship’s company evacuated those needing medical aid and deployed specialists to support the skipper — preventing the vessel from sinking.”
“In tough conditions and without rest, my team saved five sailors and ensured the yacht was not lost. I couldn’t be prouder.”
HMS Diamond Ready for Next Mission
After the rescue, HMS Diamond left Portsmouth to join HMS Queen Elizabeth in northern European waters. The destroyer will form part of the formidable Carrier Strike Group, including warships, helicopters, and F-35 stealth jets, on Operation Achillean.
