A 32ft catamaran with engine trouble in a wind-swept Osborne Bay led to the launching of both Cowes RNLI’s and Bembridge RNLI’s lifeboats this afternoon (Tuesday).
The catamaran, with 2 people on board, had suffered an engine breakdown, and then its deployed anchor began to drag in the stiff easterly wind.
Solent Coastguard requested the launch of Cowes’ inshore lifeboat at just before 15:45, arriving on scene a short time later.
A volunteer crew member was placed aboard the catamaran, with discussions leading to the decision to request the assistance of an All Weather Lifeboat – the nearest being Bembridge’s Tamar-class.
Upon the arrival of Bembridge Lifeboat, the anchor was recovered and the catamaran was taken under tow to Trinity Landing, Cowes, escorted by the Cowes lifeboat.
The casualty vessel has subsequently been towed by a harbour launch to Shepards Marina.
