Major Search

Last night the IRT got tasked by Portland Coastguard to carry out a search from Old Harry to the chain ferry. Our tasking was only a very small part of a major search being coordinated by Solent Coastguard searching for a lone sailor missing from his yacht which was found on the Isle of Wight.

The yacht set out from Poole yesterday morning with the lone sailor who was believed to have purchased the yacht that morning. The yacht was located with the engine running and the sails set, a life jacket was also found on board but no sign of the male.

The search was carried by Rescue 104 and 106, Swanage, Poole and Southbourne Coastguard teams, Freshwater lifeboat and probably a few more assets which we may not have heard.



The search area was huge and 5 hours of searching in low temperatures sadly did not locate the sailor.

Always wear a life jacket and proper equipment.
Check the weather and sea conditions before setting off.
Ensure you know your limitations.
Have a VHF radio
Carry flares