Sandown & Shanklin Independent Lifeboat (SSILB) was called into action yesterday afternoon (Saturday) when a yacht reported it was in difficulty off the Ventnor coast.
Solent Coastguard requested that the volunteers of SSILB launched the lifeboat to assist the casualty vessel at just before 14:30.
Once alongside the yacht, it was ascertained that it had an engine problem. With no risk to safety, it was decided that the yacht would sail back to its home port of Hamble near Southampton.
The inshore lifeboat escorted the yacht across Sandown Bay to ensure all was well before returning to station to be rehoused.
Ventnor Coastguard Rescue Team were also tasked to the incident to keep ‘eyes on’ from the shoreline.
All resources were stood down when the yacht was seen to make good progress away from the East Coast of the Isle of Wight towards the Solent.
If you or someone else is in difficulty on the coast or at sea, or if you spot what you think may be unexploded ordnance, then dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard. Further safety information can be found at https://coastguardsafety.campaign.gov.uk/.
Get help faster by giving emergency services your exact location by using ///what3words.
what3words have divided the world into 3m squares and given each square a unique combination of three words, which means when you are in a remote area of the Isle of Wight you can get assistance much quicker without the need for local knowledge.
‘eyes on’ lol, they must think they are the SAS
Just hope YOU never need them !!