9 May 2011 - At 1440 hours on 5 May, NCI Portland Bill was contacted by Portland Coastguard requesting information on five dinghies reported becalmed off Grove Point. The watchkeepers reported the five laser sailing dinghies in sight two miles from the lookout and being carried south by the tide towards Portland Race. They also reported that the local angling vessel Tiger Lily was in the vicinity. The skipper was asked to proceed and eventually located the dinghies 1.8 miles south of Portland Bill.

He confirmed that all persons were unharmed but unable to make their way back to Portland Harbour due to strong tides and lack of wind. By 1717 hours, all dinghies were reported safely under tow into Portland Harbour.

Andrew Jenkins, Portland Coastguard Watch Manager said:

We would like to thank all members of the public for their assistance in reporting these craft, the National Coastwatch for their assistance with observations and the crew of the Tiger Lily for assisting. Although in this instance the crew of these dinghies were recovered safe and well, the incident could have had a different outcome. Any group such as this intending to go out on the water should ensure they have all the necessary safety equipment including distress flares and good communications equipment including a VHF radio.