Lifeboat called out to assist yacht with engine failure

Douglas lifeboat was launched to aid a 45-foot yacht drifting close to the rocks off the coast near Douglas Head yesterday,

The vessel was dangerously close to the rocks and in need of towing to safety. Douglas RNLI attempted to tow the vessel but due to the yachts rudder failure it was quickly identified that additional support was required.

Port St Mary RNLI’s all-weather Trent class lifeboat Gough Ritchie II, was already out on exercise and following a request from Belfast Coastguard at 1.05pm, was diverted to go and assist Douglas RNLI. 

The volunteer crews from both stations worked together to tow the yacht to safety with 2 people on board.

During the tow the yachts rudder and power soon returned, resulting in the yacht being able to manoeuvre themselves back into Douglas harbour, escorted by both lifeboats.