A large yacht has become stuck on rocks after running aground on Bembridge Ledge this morning (Tuesday).
Bembridge RNLI’s inshore lifeboat is attending to the casualty vessel, ‘Vantage’, which is thought to have 8 people on board.
Solent Coastguard requested the launch of the lifeboat from Lane End at just gone 06:30 after receiving a Pan Pan distress call.
Those on board the vessel are being evacuated from the 44ft yacht and taken to the safety of Bembridge Lifeboat Station. The inshore lifeboat is conducting a number of shuttle runs.
Coastguard Officers from Bembridge Coastguard Rescue Team are also on scene and are liaising with the yacht’s crew.
Attempts will be made to refloat the boat later on today but there are concerns for the structural integrity of Vantage.
UPDATE @ 12:34 – Bembridge Coastguard Rescue Team have inspected the yacht for any signs of damage and pollution.
It is been determined that the yacht is likely to refloat with the tide.
Bembridge RNLI are expected to re-launch at around 16:30 this afternoon.
UPDATE @ 17:55 – The 44ft yacht has been safely refloated with the tide.
4 of the vessel’s crew were taken out to the yacht by Bembridge’s D-Class lifeboat shortly before 16:15. The yacht floated off the ledge without assistance and was then escorted for a short distance by the lifeboat.
With the crew confirming everything seemed in order, the yacht then proceeded back to Gosport unaided. The vessel is expected to be lifted out of the water for a full inspection.
The crew of the ‘Norman Harvey’ lifeboat brought ashore the bags of the yacht’s other 4 crew members who were making their own way by taxi to join up with other boats in their group in Yarmouth.
