Barry Dock RNLI’s all-weather lifeboat (ALB) and Porthcawl RNLI’s Atlantic 85 lifeboat launched yesterday to assist a 27ft yacht struggling in rough sea conditions, with a sea-sick crew member onboard.

Barry Dock RNLI’s ALB was called out after the yacht encountered difficulties in strong easterly winds. Due to the dangerous sea state, it was not safe to transfer the crew member at sea, so the Barry Dock lifeboat crew directed the yacht to follow them towards Porthcawl, hoping to gain shelter after rounding Nash Point.

While escorting the yacht, it ran out of fuel near Nash Point and drifted dangerously close to the shore. Acting quickly, Barry Dock RNLI crew efficiently rigged and passed a towline to the yacht, beginning a tow towards Porthcawl.

Porthcawl RNLI’s Atlantic 85 lifeboat was requested to assist, successfully transferring the sea-sick crew member to safety. Porthcawl lifeboat then took over the tow for the final stretch to shore. All aboard the yacht were returned safely.

Andy Gavan, Barry Dock 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.’

Once the casualty and yacht were safely ashore, Barry Dock lifeboat returned to station and was prepared for its next call out.