Cowes RNLI lifeboat went to assist a couple aboard a 26-foot yacht which had lost its mast in strong Solent winds on Tuesday afternoon.
The dismasting occurred east of East Lepe Buoy. Although the crew had an engine, they feared the trailing rigging could easily become entangled in the propeller, so they dropped anchor and radioed coastguard for assistance.
Arrived ten minutes after launching
After launching at 5pm the lifeboat arrived on the scene ten minutes later. Some of the lifeboat crew went aboard the yacht to help lift the mast and rigging on to the deck.
Then, with the yacht able proceed under its own power, it was escorted to Trinity Landing, Cowes.
News shared by George on behalf of Cowes RNLI. Ed
