Tobermory RNLI volunteers launch to ocean rowing boat off the Isle of Coll

The UK Coastguard requested Tobermory RNLI lifeboat to launch at 16:45 following concerns about an ocean rowing boat with two crew aboard. The rowing boat had last been seen on the global ship tracking system automatic identification system (AIS) 24 hours previously by the Cairns of Coll. It had then been sighted off the west coast of Coll and at one stage appeared to be empty.

Tobermory RNLI's crew made best speed to the reported position on the west coast of Coll. On arriving at the scene an hour after leaving Tobermory, the volunteer crew established that all was well with the rowing boat's crew and gave them some safety advice.

The lifeboat returned to Tobermory where it was refuelled and made ready for service shortly after 20:00.

Tobermory RNLI Coxswain David McHaffie said: 'There have been a number of incidents recently involving ocean rowing boats off the coasts of the north west of Scotland and Northern Ireland. We would urge that those involved to ensure that they have the means for communicating with the Coastguard and that they are suitably trained and equipped for undertaking such passages. We'd also like to thank the members of the public who assisted us with this search'.

Natasha Bennett, RNLI Regional Media Officer for Scotland, 07826 900639, [email protected]

Martin Macnamara, RNLI Regional Media Manager for Scotland, 07920 365929, [email protected]

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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 142,700 lives.

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