A YACHT that ran aground beneath the Seven Sisters cliffs weeks ago is still stranded.

The 16-metre yacht left Dover on July 23 before getting into difficulty in the early hours of July 25 between the Cuckmere Valley and Birling Gap, near Eastbourne.

The owner was hoping it would refloat at high tide but the boat, named Cape Michelle, remained stuck on the rocks.

Airbags have been set up around the hull but there are fears the boat is “more deeply embedded in the chalk than previously thought”.

The Argus: It ran aground on July 25It ran aground on July 25

A Maritime and Coastguard Agency spokeswoman said: “Attempts to refloat the Cape Michelle began on Tuesday’s high tide by the salvage company appointed by the owner, but the yacht remains grounded in its position at Seven Sisters, east of Newhaven.

“Airbags have been deployed around the hull alongside additional tow points to attach a tow line – but there are concerns the vessel is more deeply embedded in the chalk than previously thought, restricting the vessel’s ability to refloat.

“Additional options are being explored by the salvors, while a multicat vessel remains in the vicinity to attempt another tow when conditions are suitable.

“High tide opportunities improve as the week progresses with the highest tide due at the weekend. MCA counter pollution is continuing to liaise with the local authority, vessel owner and salvor.”

On Monday, July 25, rescue teams were made aware of the boat, which had one person onboard, dragging its anchor along the seafloor.

The Argus: Salvage options are being exploredSalvage options are being explored

The sailor was winched to safety by the coastguard helicopter from Lydd in Kent.

Birling Gap Coastguard Rescue Team and Newhaven RNLI also attended.

The sea was choppy, with wave heights of around one metre on the day and Cape Michelle could be seen listing to its left side.

The coastguard encouraged people not to attempt to approach or board the vessel due to the rocky terrain.

The Argus reported how the boat still remained days after it ran aground.

There were concerns about diesel spilling out of the boat which “would not have a long-term detrimental effect on the environment”.

In June, a yacht also manned by one person washed up on Rustington beach in Littlehampton.