Boat sinks off Margate as engine fails – two rescued in dramatic sea rescue
Speedboat stranded half a mile from Margate harbour
Last night at around 10 p.m., the UK Coastguard sprung into action after relatives spotted trouble. A 12ft speedboat powered by an outboard engine was clinging to the tide gauge beacon about half a mile off Margate harbour. The boat appeared to be sinking.
Lifeboat crew race to rescue occupants in chilling conditions
Margate’s D class inshore lifeboat arrived quickly to find the craft partially submerged. Both occupants were in the water, but thankfully both wore lifejackets. The crew hauled them aboard to check for injuries. With the boat sinking fast, the lifeboat team decided to tow the stricken vessel back to shore.
Boat engine failure sparked dangerous drift towards harbour
The engine had failed off Palm Bay, leaving the boat to drift helplessly towards Margate harbour. Thanks to swift calls from concerned onshore relatives and the quick response from the Margate RNLI, the boat was safely recovered and secured. The two passengers escaped unharmed and were handed over to the Margate coastguard rescue team.
RNLI stresses importance of safety gear and quick action
“The successful rescue was down to shore-based eyes spotting their plight early and the fact they were wearing lifejackets. Never underestimate their value,” said Lee Button, Deputy Launching Authority, Margate RNLI.
“Make sure you have ways to attract attention, like flares. If you’re near shore, keep a mobile phone in a waterproof bag and on your person — it could save your life.”
