By Isle of Wight Observer
Cowes RNLI lifeboat joined in a combined effort on Sunday to prevent a large sail-training vessel from causing a potentially serious incident in boat-crowded Cowes Harbour.
The 35-metre (115ft) training vessel had reported losing propulsion in the harbour, after leaving Shepards Marina. An approaching Red Funnel car ferry was warned of the problem while the lifeboat, together with a harbour launch and other craft, rushed to the vessel’s aid. They then proceeded to nudge and tow the training vessel until it could be safety brought alongside the outside pontoon of Cowes Yacht Marina.
The lifeboat was returning from a safety patrol at the start of the Ocean Globe Race when the alarm was raised.