Multi-lifeboat RNLI rescue for two vessels in difficulties in the Thames Estuary

RNLI lifeboats from Margate and Ramsgate have assisted a 12m long sailing vessel and a 23.5m long, 67 gross ton training vessel after they experienced difficulties in blustery conditions off the north Kent coast.

HM Coastguard received a Pan Pan urgency broadcast from the sailing vessel, with two persons on board around 5.30pm last night (Sunday 26 October) reporting they were experiencing mechanical problems and required assistance, they were around six miles north west of Margate at the time.

The training vessel with 30 persons on board, and in a ‘good Samaritan’ role had been attempting to assist the yacht but had also experienced its own problems with a rope fouling one of its two propellers.

Margate RNLI’s B class inshore lifeboat was launched to assist the original casualty and with two vessels potentially requiring assistance Ramsgate RNLI’s all-weather lifeboat was, tasked to also assess the developing situation.

Once the lifeboats were on scene, and with the yacht’s mechanical problems unresolved it was decided the safest solution was for the yacht to be taken in tow to Ramsgate harbour by Ramsgate’s all-weather lifeboat.

Margate’s B class lifeboat meanwhile was asked to stand by the training vessel while it secured its fouled propeller shaft. Once it was established the situation was under control the lifeboat was released and retuned to station.

Ramsgate lifeboat meanwhile arrived safely with its tow in Ramsgate where it was met by members of Margate’s coastguard rescue team.

Derek Amas, Lifeboat Operations Manager, Margate RNLI said: “This was a complex operation coordinated by the coastguard and dealt with by the volunteer crews of Thanet’s two RNLI lifeboat stations. It also reinforces the importance of notifying the coastguard at an early stage of developing situations to enable the outcome to be managed by the safest means.”