The lifeboat launched to a sailing dinghy off Island Wall, Whitstable. Although the single occupant had not requested assistance, people ashore had expressed concern for his safety, as the wind had dropped, and it was by now almost completely dark.

When the lifeboat arrived on scene the dinghy was making slow progress towards the shore, so the lifeboat crew stood by it until the craft was safely back on the beach.

The lifeboat then returned to its carriage.