15/06/2026
#36 12-Jun-26 16:46:03 - GORLESTON & Gt Yarmouth - Launch Atlantic.
HM Coastguard requested the assistance of our inshore lifeboat (ILB), ‘John Rowntree’.
The Coastguard had received reports of 2 broken down boats drifting on Breydon Water.
Our volunteer crew arrived on scene where there were 3 boats-2 casualty vessels and one motor vessel trying to assist.
After assessing the situation, due to the conditions and the risk of running aground, it was decided the safest course of action was to tow the vessels to a safe mooring.
The vessel with no power or steerage was deemed in most need so a tow was setup with this vessel first but with the wind blowing a gale force 7 and a 2 metre swell with flood tide and SW wind the conditions were very challenging in the narrow channel.
With safest towing direction being into the wind it was decided Goodchild Marine was a safer option than Great Yarmouth Yacht Station, but it was still quite a challenge to keep the vessel under control.
After entering the River Waveney at the end of Breydon Water, the casualty vessel was secured alongside the ILB to improve manoeuvrability whilst mooring.
The vessel was securely moored at Goodchild’s and met by the Coastguard Rescue Team. The ILB crew then headed back to assist the 2nd vessel.
Once back on scene the ILB escorted the motorboat, which had secured the 2nd casualty alongside itself, as they were happy to continue assisting.
The ILB crew then assisted in mooring the 2nd vessel on a secure berth at Goodchild’s.
Helm, Wayne Flowerday, said:
“It was a tricky situation on scene, lines and masts in the water all drifting towards the mud.
The crew did an amazing job under huge pressure with the space, wind and tide against us but they stepped up and got the job done. We ended with all 3 boats safely back to the moorings & 4 very happy casualties!”
