Coastguard New Zealand spokesman Ben Parsons said Dunedin crews were presented with the "rare opportunity" to aid a 30-metre-long French trimaran that was a part of the Area Ultim Challenge Brest, a solo non-stop yacht race around the world, when it entered Otago waters on Saturday.
The yacht, Actual Ultim 3, had been damaged and needed repairs.
Volunteers aboard Moana Rescue took French technicians out to assist the solo sailor with repairs so he could continue the race, Mr Parsons said.
According to race rules the coastguard was not allowed to interfere, so guided the yacht through the Otago Heads to the upper basin of Otago Harbour.
Harbour control also provided support to Coastguard Dunedin with broadcasting to guide the yacht in safely, he said.
Coastguard Dunedin president Blair Olsen said it was awesome to see such dedication from crews aboard Moana Rescue and great to receive gratitude from those in need of aid.
An Otago Yacht Club spokesman said 30m was a monstrous length, and it was rare for a vessel of that size to stop in during a race.
