Largs RNLI launch to broken down motorboat in Fairlie Bay

Crew pagers sounded shortly before 10pm for the Atlantic 85 lifeboat to be launched following concerns for a 30 foot motorboat, with four persons on board, without power.

The R.A. Wilson launched into the darkness of the evening, on calm waters with a slight breeze. Best speed was made to the reported location where due to the low tide the motorboat had settled on the sandy bottom and the anchor had been deployed to prevent the vessel from being washed ashore.

Crew from the Largs RNLI lifeboat waded to the casualty vessel where they were welcomed aboard. The lifeboat crew were able to determine that there were no casualties and that the vessel had not been damaged.

As power could not be restored the decision was made to set up a tow, recover the anchor and then tow to the nearest safe location, Largs Yacht Haven.

On arrival at Largs Yacht Haven the Largs RNLI lifeboat crew safely handed over the casualty vessel to the awaiting Largs Coastguard Team. The lifeboat was then released and returned to the boathouse, where Covid protocols were followed, the lifeboat was cleaned, refuelled and made ready for service.

Dave Stevens, Helm at Largs RNLI, said: ‘It is important when planning a trip to sea to ensure that you have an appropriate method of communication should you need help, including a handheld VHF radio and a mobile phone. In a coastal emergency you should always dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard.’

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.