RNLI Barry and Porthcawl aid in yacht rescue

Barry RNLI’s all-weather lifeboat was launched in response to the yacht’s distress call where a sea-sick crewmember was also struggling onboard.

Due to the dangerous sea state, it wasn’t safe to transfer the crewmember at sea, so the Barry RNLI lifeboat crew directed the yacht to follow them towards Porthcawl, hoping to gain shelter from the easterly wind after rounding Nash Point.RNLI Launch (Image: RNLI Barry) While escorting the yacht near Nash Point, the yacht ran out of fuel and due to it being so close to the shore, the lifeboat crew quickly and efficiently rigged and passed a towline.

RNLI Launch (Image: RNLI Barry)  A tow towards Porthcawl was then started. Porthcawl RNLI Lifeboat’s Atlantic 85 was requested to assist, successfully removing the sea-sick casualty, before returning to take over the tow for the final few miles - all were returned to shore safely.

Andy Gavan, Barry Dock Lifeboat Station Coxswain, said: “This was a challenging rescue, but thanks to the training and teamwork of both Barry Dock and Porthcawl lifeboat crews, we were able to bring everyone home safely.

“A successful outcome like this makes all the joint training sessions worthwhile. We are one crew, no matter which lifeboat station we are based at.”