The RNLI’s recently published call-out statistics reveal that 2,081 skippers required their rescue services in 2022 – a 5% increase on 2021. And the main cause – mechanical failure – give rise for concern. Engine reliability has improved markedly over the last 30 years, so the figures are disappointing.
However, as a marine surveyor who regularly prepares engine inspection reports, I’m not hugely surprised. Many of the engines I see have clearly not received even the most basic maintenance.
Many of us with sailing yachts see engines as purely auxiliary, for entering and leaving port, but the RNLI’s figures suggest otherwise. Some engines will complete a season with less than 20 hours’ running, but
