Exmouth RNLI called to broken down motor boat
Exmouth RNLI volunteer crew launched to an incident this evening involving a 22ft motor boat broken down off Budleigh Salterton.
At 7.58pm today Sunday 22 August 2021, H.M. Coastguard tasked Exmouth RNLI All Weather Lifeboat R & J Welburn to attend a report of a 22 foot bowrider in difficulties with engine failure approximately 800 yards off the coast of Budleigh Salterton.
The charity’s lifeboat launched at 8.17pm with volunteer crew, Roy Stott, Harry Griffin, Robert Thompson, Andrew Stott, Ed Steele and Geoff Mills. The lifesavers immediately made their way to the last known position of the vessel. Adults and a number of children were reportedly on board the broken down boat that had a malfunctioning VHF radio but had made emergency contact via mobile phone.
The boat was located at about 8.33pm at the position given and the crew quickly assessed the situation. It became clear that the vessel was unable to make progress so it was secured and a tow effected.
The vessel and its crew were safely towed to Exmouth Marina arriving there at 9.42pm and the lifeboat was back on service a short time later. None of those on board the broken down boat sustained any injury or required medical assistance.
Detailed RNLI advice for sailing and motorboating can be found here :
https://rnli.org/safety/choose-your-activity/yacht-sailing-and-motorboating
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.