Margate RNLI B class inshore lifeboat ‘Colonel Stock Photo: RNLI Margate
Margate’s dedicated RNLI lifeboat volunteers sprang into action last night, rescuing a lone yachtsman after his vessel suffered steering failure in challenging conditions off the North Kent coast. The swift response, lauded by RNLI officials, prevented a potentially dangerous situation from escalating.
The drama unfolded around 7pm on Friday, June 27 when HM Coastguard received a distress call from the single occupant of a 7metre yacht. The experienced sailor reported that his vessel’s rudder was compromised, and despite his attempts to anchor, he was drifting approximately three miles north of Margate.
With the yacht perilously close to offshore sandbanks and low tide approaching, coupled with a fresh south-westerly breeze, the Margate RNLI’s B class inshore lifeboat, named ‘Colonel Stock,’ was immediately launched.
Upon reaching the casualty vessel, a member of the lifeboat crew was transferred aboard, where they quickly confirmed the yachtsman was safe and well. After assessing the situation, it became clear that the steering issue could not be resolved at sea. The safest course of action was determined to be a tow to a nearby port of refuge.
The lifeboat then took the yacht under tow, bringing it safely to Ramsgate Harbour, where it was securely moored alongside. Local coastguard officers were also present to assist. The entire rescue operation, lasting a commendable five hours, concluded with the lifeboat returning to its station.
Christian Wright, Launch Authority for Margate RNLI, praised the yachtsman’s quick thinking.
“Conditions were far from ideal, and being close to offshore sandbanks at low tide, the yachtsman, who was experienced and had previously sailed around the world, took prudent action in attempting to anchor and asking for assistance,” said Wright.
He emphasized the importance of early communication in such scenarios.
“Talking to the coastguard at the early stages of a developing situation is important; in this case, the situation was able to be resolved before darkness descended.”