This in from Cowes’ RNLI, in their own words – Ed.
A couple aboard a yacht which encountered double trouble in a very choppy Solent today were eventually helped to safety by Cowes RNLI lifeboat.
The couple, aboard the 35 foot Gosport-based yacht Deaux Points off Gurnard, had
informed Solent Coastguards just after 11 am the engine was smoking badly, and when they tried to use the headsail to steer further from the shore it became twisted and torn.
Tabby Cat
Cowes’ Atlantic 85 lifeboat Tabby Cat, with Patrick Moreton at the helm, was soon on the scene. After crew-member Alisdair Boden went aboard to inspect the engine, it was decided to tow the yacht as far as Cowes Harbour mouth.
It was then able to proceed in the calmer waters under its own power to Shepards Wharf Marina, escorted all the way by the lifeboat.
The lifeboat had been off station for 40 minutes.
