Two sailors were rescued near Roses on Thursday afternoon after their seven-metre yacht drifted close to the cliffs at Cap Norfeu during severe maritime weather.
The incident happened around 5.30pm, when a French yacht sailing nearby raised the alarm after its crew saw two people on the disabled vessel signalling for help.
The Barcelona Maritime Rescue Centre activated the Salvamar Lyra, which headed to the area. The rescue became more difficult because the yacht’s crew could not be contacted, as they had no working radio or telephone, officials said.
Maritime Rescue personnel later found the yacht very close to the rocks below the cliff. Both people on board were rescued safely, and the Salvamar Lyra then towed the vessel to the port of Roses.
Conditions at the time included northerly winds of 35 knots and waves of up to four metres. Maritime Rescue used the incident to remind sailors to check weather forecasts before leaving port and to make sure radio communication systems and other safety equipment are working.
Officials also advise mariners to carry fully charged mobile phones in waterproof cases and to have a VHF radio on board for direct contact with rescue services. Regular checks on sails and rigging can help prevent breakdowns, especially when sailing in areas affected by Tramuntana winds in the Empordà region. For more local reporting, see our news coverage.
