Yacht Abandoned in Bad Weather

Friday, May 15, 2009
Posted 21:12 GMT

Two foreign nationals were rescued from their 25ft yacht Ouhm approximately 35 miles north east of Dunbar in the North Sea.

Forth Coastguard received a radio call from the crew aboard the yacht at just after 5pm.

Stephen Higgins, Coastguard Watch Manager, Forth Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre, said:

We were very concerned for the welfare of the two crew aboard as we knew the weather conditions were worsening with easterly winds 35 - 40 knots and waves up to 8 metres high. Dunbar all weather RNLI lifeboat was requested to launch and a commercial tug R T Magic was standing by until the arrival of the lifeboat.

The weather conditions prevented the safe tow of the yacht and the two crew (one male one female) had to abandon their vessel to the safety of the lifeboat. They are both safe and well and will be taken to Dunbar.

We would like to remind the public how important it is to be prepared when setting to sea and carry life saving appliances aboard. If in doubt always contact your local Coastguard station or visit www.mcga.gov.uk

For further details contact:
The Maritime & Coastguard Agency Press Office
023 8032 9401