Douglas lifeboat launched following reports of upturned vessel
The volunteer crew from Douglas RNLI Lifeboat Station were tasked to launch by HM Coastguard following sighting of an upturned vessel by the new addition to the Isle of Man Steam Packet, Manxman.
Douglas RNLI all-weather lifeboat Joy and Charles Beeby launched at 10.04am following a request for help from the Coastguard.
Upon reaching the potential coordinates, the experienced crew of the Douglas RNLI carried out an extensive search, employing various meticulously planned search patterns. Despite their diligent efforts, the vessel remained undiscovered.
Recognizing the need for additional aerial support, the coastguard diverted ‘Rescue 24,’ a fixed-wing plane, from the Blackpool area to assist with the search. Working in tandem, the RNLI crew and the aerial team intensified their efforts, coordinating their search to cover the expansive area effectively.
Approximately 2.5 miles off the coast of Laxey, the crew aboard ‘Rescue 24’ successfully located the upturned vessel.
Quickly assessing the situation, the Douglas RNLI crew made the decision to tow the unmanned dinghy back to Laxey, as it posed a risk and potential danger to navigation. Douglas Coastguard were at Laxey readily prepared to receive the vessel, and the potentially hazardous debris was safely removed from the water.
Volunteer Coxswain Peter Cowin emphasized the crucial importance of responding swiftly to reports of maritime incidents. He stated: ‘This operation underscores the significance of collaboration between the RNLI, coastguard, and aerial support in ensuring the safety of our waters. Even on a calm day such as today it can still be a challenging endevour, as always we are committed to safeguarding lives and our marine environment.’
The RNLI volunteers washed down the Joy and Charles Beeby and refuelled it to ensure the lifeboat was ready for the next emergency.
RNLI media contacts
For more information please contact Charli Dimelow, Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer on 07624 436013 or email [email protected] or Eleri Roberts on [email protected] / 07771 9041390. Alternatively contact RNLI Press Office on 01202 336789.
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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