VIDEO: Cargo Vessel Towed to Safety after Engine Breakdown

A UK-flagged general cargo vessel Verity, which was left adrift off North Devon coast after its engine failed in inclement weather, has been towed to Swansea for repairs, according to the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI).

The 300 foot cargo vessel, crewed by seven people, lost propulsion on Friday after being stricken by rough seas and force eight winds.

The vessel was carrying 3,000 tons of scrap metal when it encountered trouble four miles off Hartland Point.

With support from the Appledore RNLI crew, the 2001-built Verity was put under tow.

The tow was maintained until 2 pm when the Dutch Frigate HNLMS De Ruyter arrived on scene to manage the operation.

Due to rough sea conditions, the vessel was first towed to Lundy Island on January 30, and continued its journey later that day to Swansea for repairs.

“We needed to make sure the cargo ship didn’t drift into shore. She was a bit too close enough for comfort,” Mike Weston, Appledore RNLI Deputy Launching Authority, said.