Both St Davids RNLI all-weather (ALB) and inshore (ILB) lifeboats launched on service following a mayday transmission received from a 15ft sailing dinghy in difficulties on Saturday 24 July at 9:40am. The lifeboats were under the command of coxswain David John and helmsman Michael Phillips respectively.
The dinghy Orlathea had capsized approximately two nautical miles west of St Davids Head. There were two males onboard who managed to right the vessel, but put out a distress call because of the possibility of hypothermia. It was decided that the RNLI St Davids ILB would not be required, so after putting one of their crew members aboard the RNLI St Davids ALB, they returned to station.
The dinghy had left Milford Haven at 5:30am and was bound for Fishguard, as it was in the process of sailing around Britain in aid of Macmillan Cancer Research. The yacht Czekmate also responded to the call and was in the process of assisting the casualty when the lifeboat arrived on scene. RAF rescue helicopter was also on scene giving overhead cover.
The two males were taken aboard the RNLI St Davids lifeboat and their dinghy was taken under tow back to lifeboat station. No medical assistance was required, and the men were given hot drinks and were able to warm up at the station. The lifeboat was rehoused at 11:20am.
Crew ALB: David John, Jestyn Martin, Robin Copley, Simon Twitchen and Peter Roberts.
Crew ILB: Michael Phillips, Gareth Morris and Mike Rogers.
