Ramsey RNLI lifeboat launched to assist small craft with engine failure
Ramsey RNLI lifeboat was launched yesterday, 5 July, at 19.40 to render assistance to a seven metre potting vessel with two people on board.
The vessel had broken down approximately 1/2 mile south east of Port Mooar, Isle of Man, with engine failure. The vessel had no anchor or auxiliary means of propulsion. The occupants had alerted the Coastguard using a mobile phone. Neither of the occupants was hurt in the incident,
In fair weather conditions and a slight sea, Ramsey’s relief lifeboat 12-21 Margaret Jean,with coxswain Mark Kenyon at the helm was alongside the broken down vessel by 20.05. A tow was safely established and the vessel was towed to Ramsey Harbour. As the tide was falling and there was insufficient depth of water to access Ramsey inner harbour the vessel was safely moored at the steps in the harbour entrance. Ramsey Coastguard met the lifeboat at Ramsey Harbour at 20.50 and conducted a debrief with those on board the broken down vessel.
The lifeboat was recovered to the boathouse, made ready for service again and the volunteer crew stood down by 21.30.
Dr Gordon Dickens, a Lifeboat Sea Safety Officer for the Isle of Man and also a member of Ramsey RNLI shore crew said: ‘This incident had a happy ending for all concerned. It was daylight and sea conditions were fair. In this sort of situation a tried and tested means of anchoring plus a standby means of power is useful. The mobile phone worked well in this case but a VHF radio is preferable as the signal can be traced thus enabling a vessel in distress to be located. And it is always advisable to wear a lifejacket.’
On the Isle of Man July 5 is Tynwald Day, the Manx national day and public holiday on the Island.
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