Emergency services / Lifeboat tows yacht
THE LERWICK lifeboat crew launched earlier this morning (Saturday) to help a 14-metre yacht with engine problems south of the town.
The German-registered vessel with six people on board had encountered engine problems yesterday while approaching Shetland from the east.
However, under sail the skipper had managed to almost reach Lerwick Harbour before needing assistance.
At the request of HM Coastguard, the Lerwick lifeboat launched just after 7.30am, reaching the stricken yacht within ten minutes, less than one nautical mile from the Ness of Sound.
A decision was made to take the vessel under tow and the lifeboat and yacht arrived in Lerwick Harbour around 8.20am, with the yacht brought alongside a pontoon in the Albert Dock.
Deputy coxswain Tommy Goudie said: “With some sea swell and gusting winds this morning, manoeuvring this yacht wasn’t straightforward but we were pleased to be able help the crew of this yacht to the safety of Lerwick Harbour, where they can carry out engine repairs.”
Become a member of Shetland News
Shetland News is asking its many readers to consider paying for membership to get additional features and services: -
- Remove non-local ads;
- Bookmark posts to read later;
- Exclusive curated weekly newsletter;
- Hide membership messages;
- Comments open for discussion.
If you appreciate what we do and feel strongly about impartial local journalism, then please become a member of Shetland News by either making a single payment, or setting up a monthly, quarterly or yearly subscription.