At 20.03hrs HM Coastguard requested the launch of our All Weather Lifeboat 13-03 R and J Welburn to assist a yacht
The 38 foot was having difficulties with its rigging off Straight Point, Exmouth. The volunteer lifeboat crew quickly responded to the pager and launched our all weather lifeboat, R & J Welburn, which made best speed to the casualty vessel. On arrival the lifeboat crew assessed the situation and found 3 persons on board including a 12 month old infant. In additiom, the yacht crew were tired and concerned about their ability to reach safe port before darkness fell. A member of the lifeboat crew was placed aboard the casualty vessel to assist with the damaged sail. Once the sail was secured the decision was made to sail back to Exmouth with the lifeboat escorting.
However, due to the direction of the wind and a hard spring ebb away, the casualty vessel was unable to beat up towards the river, and it was deemed the safest option was to place the vessel under tow against the tide and get the vessel into a place of safety.
The tow was cast off at Exmouth Marina entrance and the vessel entered the marina under its own power and was secured for the night.
The lifeboat was stood down at 10.45pm and berthed at the marina. It was recovered to the lifeboat station the next morning.
Whether you race or cruise, every day afloat is an adventure. Even on the shortest trips you can get caught out, so it pays to be prepared, including carrying the right boat safety kit. The RNLI’s expert advice, so you can have fun and stay safe while at sea, can be found on the RNLI’s website.