A YACHT in distress has been rescued in a joint operation by Rhyl and Llandudno lifeboats.

The yacht had left Conwy marina on passage to Liverpool when it became becalmed with engine failure in dense mist, near the Gwynt-yr-Mor windfarm on Sunday February 24, and called Holyhead Coastguard coordination centre for assistance. The Coastguards called out Rhyl lifeboat to go to the yacht’s aid.

An RNLI spokesman said: “The Rhyl lifeboat located the yacht by radio direction finding Visibility on the scene was less than 50 metres. The crew on board were well, but were not sure of their location, and so a tow was undertaken towards Liverpool.

“The Rhyl lifeboat coxswain decided that the Hoylake lifeboat would be more suitable to take the yacht into the river Mersey, and RNLI Hoylake lifeboat station. Hoylake launched its Shannon class all weather lifeboat.”

He added: “Shortly afterwards Mersey Harbour Control Authority refused permission to for the craft to enter the busy shipping channel in such poor visibility.

“In consultation with the Coastguards, it was decided to turn back towards Conwy marina, and Hoylake lifeboat was stood down.

“Llandudno lifeboat was asked to tow the yacht back to Conwy marina. The tow was transferred off the Rhyl Flats windfarm, and Llandudno lifeboat towed the yacht into Conwy marina.