I read the report.
I was surprised that they had 14 sailors on the 60 foot boat. That's a lot of people.
Here is some latest news from the boat's Facebook post:
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Clyde Challenger Shore Team Update 12 Feb 2017 15:00
"The
skipper, crew and shore team behind Clyde Challenger wish to express their thanks for all the messages of support we have received following the successful transfer of the crew and scuttling (sinking) of the yacht to ensure she was not a navigational
hazard for other mariners.
We have now been able to speak directly with the
Skipper and gather more details of the
events, summarised here;
- On Thursday evening the 9th February the yacht was hit by a large
rogue wave during
passage to the UK. She was sailing well at the time with a fully reefed
mainsail.
- The impact of the wave knocked the yacht on her side. She recovered within a few seconds, however the
mast had been severed at
deck level. In addition the instrument pole at the stern of the yacht was also severed and a number of
safety related items and communication systems were
lost.
- The team quickly ascertained that all crew were accounted for and did not need any urgent
medical attention.
- The crew then executed the appropriate procedures to alert other vessels in the area of their issue and triggered their long range
satellite emergency beacon.
- A nearby cargo vessel was able to offer shelter until the damage on the yacht could be made safe. As the vessel
hull was secure and capable of supporting the crew the decision was taken not to undertake an immediate transfer but to investigate all options. There was no damage to the rudder as initially suspected.
- The UK Coastguard rescue co-ordination team then worked hard with multiple agencies to maintain
safety cover on site and communication with the vessel while crew transfer options were finalised.
- On Saturday 11th February, late afternoon, the crew of HMS Dragon successfully transferred the crew of Clyde Challenger to the safety of their vessel where they received a
medical check up before being able to call
family.
- Due to the severity of the damage to the yacht, the loss of
equipment and the
forecast weather the skipper was left with no option but to scuttle the yacht to ensure she did not represent a hazard to
navigation.
The crew are now under the care of the Royal
Navy and in good hands. They will have had a frightening experience when the yacht was knocked over however we are proud of the way in which the crew
training and procedures were executed to maintain the vessel as a suitable shelter while transfer was arranged.
HMS Dragon, subject to operational reasons is due to disembark the crew mid week. Once we have confirmation of where and when they
dock (which may change) we will
work with each crew
member to get them back home.
We have attached some
images to this post, which have been made available online. Further updates will follow as we get the team nearer to shore."