Thanks to Swansea lifeboat

[Csail]

Had complete engine failure and i was single handed drifting towards nash sands. The irb was on a training exercise and noticed (i didn't call them) Towed me in to Swansea then when swmbo arrived. managed to sail back to cardiff but great job from the lifeboat crew and a nice bunch of guys and girls.Many thanks.

 

[Cardiffcruiser]

Here's that photo of Zet's Dogfish before you had the problems.

Do you know what caused the failiure?

 

[Csail]

Well the oil pressure warning light comes on at low revs so i reckon either a fuel problem or blocked oil filters.

 

[Freshbreeze]

Here's that photo of Zet's Dogfish before you had the problems.

Do you know what caused the failiure?

Nice Dog!

I have had problems with engines out in the bristol, and to be fair the coast guard (milford) allowed me to carry on to milford haven under sail providing I informed them my position every hour or so. The CG are very understanding when you explain your situation.

Lessons learnt:

1. Keep the charts down below, or at least in a water resistant folder.

2. Always write down the passage plan, including bouys, on a waterproof notepad!

3. Be honest with the CG. They will not send out a boat unless absolutely vital!

I always (well, nearly) inform the CG of my intended plans, and I ensure I inform them when I am safely in port or lying to anchor. Some may say that this is not needed, however what if your boat suddenly goes down and you couldn't get a mayday call out before the batteries fried, at least the CG know you are out there, and have a approximate idea of your possible location.

Prevention is better than cure, and I do not intend on going out there to sink a boat! Nice to know there are others out there to help you when a problem that you cannot control arises!