Busy Start To September For Cowes RNLI With Two Callouts

Credit: RNLI/Willoughby Matthews

It was a busy first weekend of September for Cowes RNLI, with volunteer crews called out twice in just three days.

On Saturday evening (6th September), the station’s inshore lifeboat Sheena Louise launched at 7.45pm after reports of a small powerboat suffering engine failure between Ryde and Fishbourne.

In fading light and challenging sea conditions, a nearby yacht had already gone to the vessel’s aid when the lifeboat arrived.

With the powerboat drifting dangerously close to the main shipping channel and two people onboard, the decision was made to tow it safely into Fishbourne, where Bembridge Coastguard Rescue Team were waiting.

The crew returned to station shortly before 10pm.Helm Adam praised the team, saying:

“Our volunteer crew did a good job in rough conditions today.

"The conditions were tricky and we relied on our training to get the vessel back safely.

"I am proud of the volunteers at Cowes RNLI Station who give their time to train, prepare and respond when people need us.”

The second shout came on Monday afternoon (8th September), when the crew launched at 4.30pm to assist a blue sailing vessel with engine trouble near Beaulieu.

Two men on board were struggling to make progress under sail.

After assessing the situation, two RNLI crew members boarded the yacht and set up a tow back to Trinity Landing in Cowes.

Once secured, the men were given safety advice before the lifeboat crew returned to station around 6pm — just in time for their scheduled training launch an hour later.

Cowes RNLI is one of 238 lifeboat stations across the UK and Ireland providing a 24/7 rescue service, thanks to public donations.

On 999 Day — the national day celebrating emergency services — the charity is encouraging people to support their lifesaving work by donating.