Yacht aground at Holy Island requests assistance

The yacht had run aground on the gravel outcrop at Holy Island, near the haven, known as the Rigg, and was unable free itself.

The lifeboats were launched and made best speed to the casualty’s location, and Holy Island Coastguard Rescue Team were also mobilised. On arrival of the lifeboats, it was established that all on board were safe and well.

The yacht was a twin hull design with twin keels, and was safely sitting upright on the gravel. The tide was falling quite quickly, and it was impossible for the lifeboats to try and tow the craft off without causing serious damage. After consultation with the yacht crew, who were in no danger, it was agreed that they be left in situ. The lifeboats would return when the tide was rising again later today, to stand by and assist the yacht to free itself.

The Lifeboats then returned to station, and were ready for service again at 10.45am, and will be returning to the yacht at 5pm today.

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 146,000 lives.

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