Islay RNLI assist stricken fishing boat off Jura

Following discussions with the casualty vessel and the Coastguard the decision was made that the Severn class all-weather lifeboat, The Helmut Schroder of Dunlossit II, would launch to aid the boat. Another fishing vessel was nearby and able to assist but would take longer than the lifeboat to reach the area.

In breezy conditions with strong gusts of wind, the seven volunteer crew on board Islay lifeboat made way to the scene. Upon arrival the decision was made for the second boat, who were willing and able, to safely tow the casualty vessel to the most suitable nearby port. Islay lifeboat stood by while the vessel was towed back into the lee of the Jura shore before heading north towards Ardfern.

The Islay lifeboat crew were stood down and returned to Port Askaig. The lifeboat was refuelled and ready for service by 11.47am. Islay RNLI would like to extend thanks to the second vessel who assisted on the day.

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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