Sailor Rescued After Boat Sinks in Busy Isle of Wight Shipping Lanes
Distress Call Sparks Major Search
A sailor was plucked to safety after his badly damaged boat sank in the bustling shipping lanes off the Isle of Wight. Just before 8pm on Friday, he sent an urgent VHF radio call to the UK Coastguard, warning his vessel was on the verge of capsizing in the English Channel.
Heroic Passer-By Spots Drifting Sailor
A full-scale coastguard search was underway, but it was a passing boat, the Caterman called Backslash, that spotted the sailor struggling in the water. The boat was heading to the famous Around the Island 1 race when the crew spotted the frantic figure bobbing up and down in the waves.
Relieved Sailor Safe on Shore
The rescued sailor, who has not been named, described his rescue as a “huge relief” and said he was “glad to be safe.” A coastguard team from Ventnor quickly scrambled to meet him near the Folly Inn in Whippenham on the Isle of Wight shortly after 8pm.
Race Participation Unclear
It remains unknown whether the sailor was planning to compete in the race scheduled to start around 6.15am on Saturday.
