RNLI Clacton rescue vessel run aground

Our volunteer crew were conducting routine training this Sunday, involving both our lifeboats when 30 minutes into the exercise our pagers sparked into life and our teams were tasked with assisting a small RIB vessel that had run aground on St Peter’s Flats, south of West Mersea.

Our Atlantic 85 lifeboat was unable to get close enough to the casualty vessel, due to the shallow waters, and awaited the arrival of the D-Class ILB, in which time a welfare check of those onboard was conducted and all found to be OK. A tow was attempted with the D-Class, but due again to the shallow water this was not possible. The crew decided to place a tow between both lifeboats and the casualty vessel and using the power of the Atlantic 85 all vessels were recovered into deeper water.

Our crew helped with an engine check of the casualty vessel and all found to be in working order, so left the vessel to continue on its journey.

Both Clacton lifeboats were stood down and were recovered, prepared and ready for service by 12:40.

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.