Yarmouth Lifeboat Rescues Sailing Trio After Mast Disaster
Yarmouth’s Severn-class lifeboat, Eric and Susan Hiscock (Wanderer), launched at 3:34pm on Friday 13 May 2022 to rescue a crippled 33ft ketch with two broken masts. The call came from HM Coastguard after the yacht was reported drifting helplessly near Hamstead Ledge.
Disabled Yacht Drifts Toward Danger
The yacht, carrying three people, was completely disabled when its main mast snapped, taking down all sails, rigging, and even the second mast. Strong westerly winds and a flooding tide pushed the vessel east, threatening the safety of those on board. The volunteer crew of Yarmouth RNLI raced out of harbour to the scene east of Newtown Creek.
Quick-Thinking Crew Secures Yacht and Tows to Safety
Two lifeboat crew members boarded the stricken yacht to secure the damaged rigging and check the steering and engine. With everyone safe, Coxswain ordered a tow to the nearest safe haven, Cowes Harbour. At Cowes, the yacht was released to continue under its own power, escorted by the lifeboat to Trinity Landing. Coastguard personnel greeted the crew for further assistance.
Deputy Coxswain Highlights Crucial Backup Communication
“Despite losing VHF communication when the mast came down, the crew wisely used their mobile phone to dial 999,” said Deputy Coxswain Peter Lemonious. “That backup call was vital in alerting the coastguard quickly.”
The lifeboat returned to Yarmouth Harbour by 5:49pm, ready for the next call.
Support Yarmouth RNLI: The RNLI is an independent charity relying entirely on donations to fund its lifesaving missions.
