Police were called by crew of a 20 metre 1958 Pilot Cutter about 3.45pm yesterday after the vessel suffered mechanical failure and began taking on water, in the D'Entrecasteaux Channel, near Whale Boat Rock (South of Woodbridge) in the state's south.
The two crew, 50-year-old woman and 59-year-old male, both from Hobart were sailing from Port Huon to Hobart to participate in the Wooden Boat Festival, when the incident happened.
The historic vessel, which had previously served as a pilot vessel on Sydney Harbour, and was only one of three of its type quickly began to sink.
The crew members used marine radio, an EPIRB and mobile phone to raise the alarm and continually provide information to emergency services.
Two police vessels were quickly on scene but unfortunately the vessel couldn't be saved and sunk soon after.
The crew members rescued by police, were wearing life jackets and had the appropriate safety equipment. No one was physically injured in the incident.
"The regular communication with police enabled a swift and effective rescue operation. This is a timely reminder for those boating to ensure they are wearing their life jacket, take the proper safety precautions, and remember to let someone know where you are going and what time you can be expected back," said Acting Inspector Danny Jackson of Hobart Police.
