Pwllheli RNLI assists yacht struggling to enter harbour in adverse weather

On Sunday 22 June, Pwllheli RNLI’s D-class inshore lifeboat was tasked by HM Coastguard to assist a yacht experiencing difficulty entering Pwllheli harbour due to deteriorating weather conditions.

The 7.5m sailing vessel, with two people on board, was battling strong winds and an opposing tide, which prevented it from making safe headway into the harbour entrance.

Pwllheli RNLI’s volunteer crew responded swiftly, launching the D class lifeboat and arriving on scene shortly after the call. After assessing the situation, it was decided that the safest course of action, due to the deteriorating weather conditions and tidal flow, that the lifeboat would establish and alongside tow with the yacht, helping to shelter and escort it to the nearest safe place.

The lifeboat crew established the alongside tow and safely assisted it into the safety of Pwllheli Marina. The two individuals on board were unharmed, and no further assistance was required once the vessel was moored securely.

Lifeboat Operations Manager, Andy Vowell, said:

‘Conditions at sea can change quickly; we urge everyone heading out to sea to check the weather and tide forecasts before setting off. It’s also important to always carry a means of calling for help, wear a lifejacket, and ensure the vessel is well-prepared for the expected conditions.’

Once the yacht was safely moored, the lifeboat returned to the station and was washed down, refuelled and made ready for service.

-ENDS-

Notes to editors

Pwllheli lifeboat station has been operating since 1891. To learn more about the lifeboat station go to: https://rnli.org/find-my-nearest/lifeboat-stations/pwllheli-lifeboat-station

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The RNLI is the charity that saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 146,700 lives.

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