The five-metre runabout’s engine failed about 30 metres east of the lighthouse channel, off Warden Head.

Ulladulla Marine Rescue crews were in training at the harbour when the breakdown was reported at 10.40am.

The two males in the vessel had dropped anchor preventing their boat from running around on rocks.

It is believed they had been diving in the vicinity when their engine failed to start.

The Warden Two rescue boat attended and towed the runabout back to the harbour within an hour of the distress call.

Unit commander Ken Lambert has advised boaters not to venture out in the rough seas and strong winds.

“There are strong wind warnings in place and people should think twice about going out,” he said.

“It looks pretty calm from the harbour but, once you get out past the heads, it’s pretty rough and windy.”