Exmouth lifeboat was launched to help the 26ft sailing vessel Mallaig, with two people on board, after it reported intermittent engine problems while unable to make sail in adverse wind and sea conditions off Sidmouth.
TheExmouth RNLI All-weather Lifeboat was launched and escorted the vessel to Exmouth, and found the two sailors had been making their way across Lyme Bay when they became increasingly tired during the previous evening and had anchored off Budleigh Salterton.
They contacted Portland Coastguard to advise them of their state of health and mechanical issues. A decision was made at 9.43am to task the Shannon class lifeboat R and J Welburn to assist the men, as they were unable to continue due to tiredness and fatigue.
On scene within 25 minutes, Deputy Coxswain Roger Jackson assessed the situation and decided to put two of Exmouth RNLI's most experienced Crew volunteers aboard to assist the casualties to Exmouth Marina. The remaining four Crew volunteers remained aboard the Shannon class lifeboat and escorted the yacht to safety.
Mark Sansom, volunteer Second Mechanic helped sail the yacht into the Marina, said: "We realised that their engine was too underpowered for the rough conditions and the casualties were exhausted. We brought the casualty drogue with us to stop the vessel from broaching, due to the size of the following sea. The sailors wisely kept the Coastguard updated, which led to the launching of Exmouth Lifeboat and prevented the situation deteriorating more.
"The two men were very grateful of our assistance and were looking forward to something to eat and lots of rest."
