Yacht Rescued by Skegness RNLI Lifeboat in Boston Deeps
A yacht in straits without propulsion in the area known as Boston Deeps was saved by a swift response from the Skegness RNLI Lifeboat station.
An urgency signal, referred to as a PAN-PAN, was picked up by the Humber Coastguard at approximately 4.06 pm on Monday, 18th September. Immediately, the Skegness all-weather lifeboat (ALB) was dispatched.
The yacht, crewed by a single sailor, received a member from the lifeboat crew who secured a towline to navigate towards the nearest safe area, Gibraltar Point. To aid the situation, which was complicated by low water levels, also launched at 5.48 pm was a Skegness inshore lifeboat (ILB).
Successful Rescue Operation Unfolds
In a turn of events, the stranded yacht managed to restart its engines, facilitated by the RNLI crew's efforts. Surveillance was maintained by the ILB, which again had to rig a tow when the engine failed for a second time until it was safely moored.
The combined knowledge and experience of the lifeboat crew onboard the ALB played a pivotal role in this operation. Led by Coxswain Craig Willard, the dedicated team comprised Craig Hopkins, Mark Holley, Martin Stokes, Ryan Speed and Lewis Knight who were all onboard at the time of the service call.
Station Coxswain, Craig Willard expressed, "I want to extend my sincere thanks to the skipper of the craft for their professionalism during our service launch. Their cooperation greatly facilitated our efforts.
"I am immensely proud of our volunteer crew, both seagoing and shore-based, for their dedication and involvement across both launches. Their teamwork is a testament to the spirit of the RNLI and our commitment to saving lives at sea."
Not unmentioned is the faithful support of the inshore lifeboat crew headed by Helm Matt Jackson, with members James Porter and Curtis Redford
The Importance of Communication in Distress Situations
Paul Simpson, RNLI Lifeboat operations manager, emphasised, "In situations of distress at sea, knowing how to call for help is crucial. Using VHF radio Channel 16 or your mobile to dial 999/112 can be the difference between a successful rescue and a negative outcome."
"We urge all craft owners to familiarise themselves with these emergency communication methods and ensure their equipment is in working order before departing."
After the yacht was safely moored, the Skegness' Coastguard Rescue Team took over, and the heroic RNLI lifeboat crews were debriefed following a successful service launch. Reflecting on the event, RNLI Skegness highlighted the indispensable role that the volunteer crew plays in maintaining maritime safety along the Lincolnshire coastline.