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Troon and Largs RNLI lifeboats launch to capsized sailing dinghy off Cumbrae

Lifeboats News Release

At 1.55pm on Sunday 27 January 2019, Troon RNLI all weather lifeboat was requested to launch by Belfast Coastguard to reports of a sailing dinghy capsizing multiple times with people in the water off Cumbrae.


Belfast Coastguard also tasked Largs inshore lifeboat, Ardrossan, Largs and Cumbrae Coastguard Rescue Teams as well as the Coastguard Search and Rescue helicopter from Prestwick, Rescue 199. The Calmac ferry Catriona also diverted to assist in the search for the dinghy.

The volunteer crew launched the Trent class all-weather lifeboat 'RNLB Jim Moffat' into a strong north westerly wind and rough seas making best speed towards Cumbrae.

As the lifeboat was still on route it was confirmed the casualty vessel was now within Largs Yacht Haven. The Coastguard team and Largs lifeboat attended and spoke to the two sailors onboard who confirmed they were safe and well and did not require any medical attention.

The sailing dinghy and experienced crew had indeed been out and had capsized but had gone closer to shore dropped their mainsail and sailed back under their jib sail. Both sailors were none the worse for their sail other than being a bit cold and wet.

With the sailing dinghy and crew traced, Belfast Coastguard released the all-weather lifeboat to return back to Troon where it was made ‘ready for service’ with assistance of the shore crew.

RNLI Media Contacts: Andrew Limond, volunteer lifeboat press officer at Troon, 01292 314414 [email protected]

Gemma McDonald, RNLI Press Officer for Scotland, 01738 642956, 07826 900639, [email protected]

Or contact RNLI Public Relations on 01202 336789.


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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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.

About the author

Andrew Limond
Lifeboat Press Officer, Troon Lifeboat Station

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