Boat that was stuck beneath Seven Sisters cliffs recovered

The 16-metre yacht, named Cape Michelle, 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.

Attempts to re-float the boat during high tide were unsuccessful and there were fears the boat was “more deeply embedded in the chalk than previously thought”.

But the boat was finally recovered yesterday afternoon with the aid of airbags on its sides and a salvage boat.

The Cape Michelle recovered yesterday afternoon. Picture from Sussex Boat Trips

The owner said they are “very relieved” – adding that the vessel needs a “minor repair because the pumps can’t keep up with wherever she’s leaking”.

Sussex Boat Trips, a boat touring business from Newhaven, took pictures of the boat soon after it was recovered yesterday afternoon.

A Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCGA) spokeswoman said yesterday: “Attempts to re-float 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.

The boat was stuck on rockpools near Birling Gap

“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 re-float.

“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.”

Sussex Boat Trips saw the boat soon it had been recovered while on a tour of the Seven Sisters

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

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 scene.

The sea was choppy on the day, with wave heights of around one metre 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.

The MCGA has been approached for further comment.