Arbroath RNLI lifeboats in double launch to save yacht
Arbroath RNLI lifeboats in double launch to save yacht
Lifeboats News Release
Both Arbroath RNLI lifeboats were requested to launch around 8.20pm on Saturday evening (21 May) following multiple reports of a 32ft sailing catamaran run aground on rocks just off Victoria Park.
Upon arrival at the scene, crews ensured the skipper was uninjured and a visual assessment of damage to the vessel was undertaken.
With a falling tide it was clear the vessel would not be re-floated, so it was secured and a plan made to return the next morning.
Volunteers assembled at station at 5:30am on Sunday morning (22 May) for briefing and preparations before launching both the charities lifeboats to re-attend the stricken vessel.
A salvage pump was transferred to the casualty vessel using the inshore lifeboat and a tow line established.
Just prior to high tide, the all-weather lifeboat was able to gently pull the yacht clear of the rocks, however, it became clear the damage was more significant than anticipated.
With the salvage pump running, the RNLI volunteers worked tirelessly to plug the damage and slow the water ingress, whilst the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service were contacted to meet crews in the harbour with additional pumps.
With help from HM Coastguard - Angus & Dundee the vessel was moored in the harbour and an emergency hoist lift was organised with Arbroath Harbour staff.
The casualty vessel was safely lifted from the water and will be further assessed for damage before repairs made.
Sam Clow, Arbroath RNLI Coxswain/Mechanic said “This was a great team effort and a huge thanks to all of our partner agencies who assisted crews to save this vessel and prevent any pollution entering the sea.”
RNLI/Arbroath RNLI
Tow underway en route to Arbroath harbour, casualty vessel flanked by ILB
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.
