Reports that a 30ft yacht had lost engine power whilst heading towards Portsmouth led to the launch of Bembridge RNLI’s All Weather Lifeboat this afternoon (Saturday).
At around 15:20, Solent Coastguard requested the launch of the lifeboat to support the casualty vessel ‘The Artemis’, that had lost engine power in the Solent.
Conditions were good so it didn’t take long for the lifeboat and her volunteer crew to reach the stricken yacht and commence a tow to Haslar Marina.
After checking in with the crew of The Artemis, it was determined the casualties were happy for the lifeboat to stand down.
The lifeboat was rehoused by 17:30.
Just wondering… Do boat’s, yachts etc not have some sort of breakdown service? Like road vehicles do? Ocean AA if you will. The lifeboat having to come out (for free) is surely like me phoning for an ambulance if I break down on the motorway!!
Also, do boat’s legally have to have an MOT or something similar to prove they’re seaworthy?
I like your thinking. But unfortunately, there are no (Seaworthy) rules. I think it’s an old rule that we are entitled to sail the seas regardless.