Guernsey Coastguard have issued a warning after overseeing the rescue of a boat with four people on board whose VHF radio and GPS systems were out of action.
On a warm, calm day when leisure boaters were making the most of the weather, Guernsey's emergency services received a call from one of four people on board a powerboat heading from Guernsey to Jersey at teatime on Sunday 27 April.
The person said the boat's single engine had broken down and he was uncertain of their location, although he thought he could see Sark.
He said neither the boat's VHF radio nor GPS were working, and his mobile was low on battery.
Coastguards were able to get a bearing after the caller was able to use the 'what3words' method of grid location.
The St Peter Port lifeboat was dispatched and located the vessel and got a tow on board.
Simon Granger coordinated the rescue:
"The incident highlights the importance of maintaining your vessel in a good state of mechanical repair and having on board correctly working navigation and VHF radio equipment.
"In addition, the benefits of the what3words app was proven again as an accurate way to pinpoint position not only on land but also in coastal areas."
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