Lerwick lifeboat crew aid small yacht in nearly 10 hour call-out
THE LERWICK lifeboat crew went to the aid of a small UK-registered yacht yesterday (Wednesday) in a near-10 hour call-out.
The crew were called to assist with a 13-metre yacht in difficulty around 45 miles east of Bressay at around 11.38am, with the lifeboat launched at noon.
The yacht was heading west from Norway, and the two crew on board had contacted HM Coastguard to report they were in difficulty.
The 250-metre crude oil tanker MV Jaarli, which had recently left Sullom Voe oil terminal, had also stood by in the area to assist with radio communications while the lifeboat made its way to the yacht’s location.
The lifeboat arrived at 1.50pm and made contact with the yacht crew, where it was soon established that the yacht was making good progress without the need for immediate help.
The crew of the yacht continued their voyage towards Shetland making around four to six knots, with the lifeboat standing off to accompany them and provide any assistance if it was needed.
The yacht and lifeboat both returned to Lerwick harbour around 9.45pm and the yacht made its own way to a pontoon on Victoria Pier.
Coxswain Stephen Manson said they were pleased that the yacht and her crew had made it back to Lerwick safely.
“There was a good sea swell and things could have ended differently,” he said.
“The skipper did the right thing by contacting the coastguard when they realised they might need assistance.
“We hope the crew have a good rest in Lerwick before they set off on their next voyage.”
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