Beacon saves sailor after yacht sinks off Anglesey

July 28, 2025

A SAILOR whose yacht sank off the coast of Wales was dramatically rescued after an emergency beacon led lifeboat crews directly to his location.

Chris Cowlard had purchased the emergency position-indicating radio beacon (EPIRB) less than three weeks before his ordeal, which unfolded near the Skerries — a cluster of rocky islets off Anglesey, known for its lighthouse and seabird colonies.

Rough seas battered the eight-metre yacht, dismasting the vessel and forcing Mr Cowlard to abandon ship. Wearing a lifejacket, he was left drifting in cold waters as the waves closed in.

As soon as the EPIRB hit the water, it automatically transmitted his position to HM Coastguard’s Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre in Holyhead. Coastguard officers quickly directed the RNLI’s inshore lifeboat from Holyhead to the scene.

Within 30 minutes of abandoning his yacht, Mr Cowlard was pulled to safety.

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency says the incident is a stark reminder of the importance of carrying safety equipment at sea. A registered beacon, along with a personal flotation device, can make the difference between life and death.

In an emergency at sea, mariners should issue a Mayday distress call on Channel 16, or dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard.