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RNLI Moelfre Volunteers Assist Vessel Adrift Near Shipping Lane.

Lifeboats News Release

Moelfre's all-weather lifeboat ‘Kiwi’ launched at 8:55pm on the 2/6/2024, to the aid of a 12-meter commercial Rib, which had suffered engine failure twenty nautical miles NW of Moelfre.

RNLI/Moelfre.

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The stricken vessel and its eight passengers were near the traffic separation scheme north of Anglesey, so the lifeboat made the best speed to the location. After a 45-minute steam, the ALB arrived on the scene, and the crew ensured everyone onboard was OK. With all occupants in the confines of the vessel's cabin, it was agreed that the safest option was to tow the vessel ashore.

Once the tow was secured, the lifeboat proceeded towards Holyhead with the casualty vessel under tow. With fading light and large commercial traffic operating in the Traffic separation scheme, the crew carefully navigated through the area and proceeded down to Holyhead Marina.

Once in the confines of the Breakwater, the tow was shortened, and the casualty vessel was recovered, secured alongside, and then taken to the Marina pontoon with the assistance of the awaiting coastguard team from Holyhead. The lifeboat returned to Moelfre at 01:30, where the crew washed down and prepared the lifeboat for the next rescue.

Lifeboat Coxswain Vince Jones said:
“With the disabled vessel being so close to the traffic separation scheme, it was imperative we got there to assist as quickly as possible. The vessel's skipper was well prepared and had all relevant safety equipment onboard, but he would have been unable to manoeuvre his vessel from any passing ships. While towing south towards Holyhead, several large ships passed close by, and we had to advise them of our location and situation to ensure we passed at a safe distance. The crew did a great job setting up and securing the tow, but even more so navigating the lifeboat and casualty vessel whilst under tow in such a busy and challenging area".

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our colleagues at Holyhead Coastguard for their impeccable coordination during the rescue. We also appreciate the invaluable assistance of the Holyhead mobile coastguard team ashore.

For further information, please contact Phil Williams, Moelfre Lifeboat Press Officer, on 07773 979910,

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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About the author

Phil Williams
Lifeboat Press Officer, Moelfre Lifeboat Station

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