Islay RNLI launch to Mayday call from vessel
On Wednesday 13 December 2023, Belfast Coastguard requested Islay lifeboat to launch to a Mayday distress call from a boat taking on water approximately five miles off the east coast of the Isle of Islay.
Paged at 11.41am the Severn class all-weather lifeboat The Helmut Schroeder of Dunlossit II launched in clear, bright conditions and light winds with seven volunteer crew on board. The lifeboat team quickly reached the 7m stricken vessel, where several nearby vessels had made way to assist. The Coastguard UK Search and Rescue helicopter 199 was also on scene from Prestwick.
The decision was made to secure the vessel, with one person on board, and tow it to the nearest safe and suitable port at Crinan. Several hours later, Islay’s volunteer crew returned to Port Askaig at 5.33pm where the lifeboat was refuelled and made ready for service. Islay RNLI lifeboat wish to thank all other vessels who were in the area and assisted in the operation.
If you find yourself in difficulty, or spot someone else in trouble at sea, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard. When going out on the water:
- Always wear a lifejacket on deck and a harness where appropriate. If you use a dinghy or tender to access your boat, make sure you always wear your lifejacket.
- Always carry a means of calling for help. As well as a mobile have an additional method like a VHF radio.
- Always check the weather forecast and tide times.
- Ensure your engine is well maintained. Always carry enough fuel for your journey, and adequate tools and spares.
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.
Learn more about the RNLI
For more information please visit the RNLI website or Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. News releases, videos and photos are available on the News Centre.
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.