Guernsey Coastguard coordinated the response to a French sailing yacht experiencing difficulties off Havre Gosselin yesterday evening.

At 4:23 p.m., Guernsey Coastguard received a report of a 9-metre French-flagged sailing yacht with three persons on board suffering fouled propulsion and engine issues whilst anchored near the Guillou Passage, off Sark. At the time, there was a strong tidal flow running through the area, deteriorating weather conditions, and fading daylight.

Given the vessel’s position in close proximity to nearby rocks, there was concern that should the anchor fail, the yacht may have drifted into danger.

The Isle of Sark Shipping Company vessel Corsaire de Serq overheard the initial VHF communications and, whilst on passage from Sark to Guernsey, diverted to assess the casualty vessel and provide a situational update to Guernsey Coastguard.

A Sark Sea Fisheries vessel was also tasked to assist; however, due to the strong tidal conditions in the area, towing the vessel would have proved difficult.

Guernsey Coastguard subsequently tasked the St Peter Port RNLI all-weather lifeboat “Volunteer Spirit” to launch and assist the casualty vessel. Lifeboat crew attended the scene, assessed the situation, and established a tow back to St Peter Port safely.

Once inside the harbour, Guernsey Marinas staff took over the tow and safely berthed the yacht within the marina.

Guernsey Coastguard would like to thank all agencies involved for their swift response and cooperation in ensuring the safe outcome for those on board.

Search Mission Coordinator – Kieran Higgs