RNLI Longhope Lifeboat searches for drifting rigid Inflatable boat

RNLI Longhope lifeboat was requested to launch tonight at 19.50pm, 26 September, by UK Coastguards. It was a very quick departure as the crew were already assembled for a crew training exercise and just about to board the lifeboat when their pagers went off.

They were tasked to search for a rib that had been sighted drifting towards Holm in Scapa Flow. The lifeboat soon located the rib and confirmed that there were no persons aboard. It was identified as belonging to Scottish Sea Farms.

The rib was then towed to Holm Pier and made secure. Kirkwall Coastguard were waiting and intended to contact the owners. Sea conditions were good with light winds and drizzle.

Incidentally, it was the first shout for the crew wearing their brand new all weather kit provided by Helly Hansen. They all seemed extremely pleased with the garments, one crew member commenting that it was 'very cosy.'

The lifeboat then headed home and was back at station by 21.27pm, refuelled and made ready again for service.

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.

Learn more about the RNLI

For more information please visit the RNLI website or Facebook, X, TikTok 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.