Richard Woods - 2006

Yacht designer Richard Woods and his 32ft catamaran Eclipse were caught in a 'Perfect Storm' in the Gulf of Tehuantepec, southern Mexico. With 70-knot winds and 20ft seas, his small boat was soon in serious trouble - especially once the parachute anchor burst, giving Woods no choice but to run before the massive waves.

In danger of capsize, Woods sent out a Mayday and activated his McMurdo Personal Locator Beacon (PLB). A few hours later a US Navy helicopter emerged out of the dark skies and terrifying conditions. Woods and his crew were helicopter airlifted to the safety of US frigate USS Ford.