Criccieth RNLI Lifeboats launch to broken-down speedboat

The request to initially launch the Station’s Atlantic 85-class Lifeboat, Doris Joan, was received by HM Coastguard and the Station promptly launched the Lifeboat which quickly arrived on scene, downstream from Borth y Gest.

The 14-foot stricken speedboat had 3 persons onboard, all of whom were wearing lifejackets, had suffered from engine failure as it made-way towards Porthmadog Harbour. With the tide ebbing quickly in the estuary, the Crew requested the launch of the Station’s smaller inshore-rescue-boat, Margaret a Nantw which was subsequently launched from Porthmadog Harbour after being transported there by road. With both Lifeboats on-scene, two of the speedboat’s crew were placed aboard the inshore rescue boat and transferred ashore to prepare for their boat’s recovery. The larger Lifeboat established an along-side tow and safely towed the speedboat back to Porthmadog with the third crew member staying onboard.

Key facts about the RNLI

The RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 142,700 lives.

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Contacting the RNLI - public enquiries

Members of the public may contact the RNLI on 0300 300 9990 (UK) or 1800 991802 (Ireland) or by email.