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Tobermory RNLI goes to the aid of yacht with engine failure in Force 6/7 winds

Lifeboats News Release

Tobermory RNLI lifeboat went to the aid of a yacht with engine failure at the entrance to Tobermory Bay in a Force 6/7 westerly wind during the Round Mull yacht race on Saturday 1 July 2023.

Tobermory RNLI lifeboat's alongside tow

RNLI/Nettie Wood

Tobermory RNLI lifeboat's alongside tow

The yacht’s skipper contacted the Coastguard to request assistance because although the vessel was proceeding under sail, the skipper was concerned about manoeuvrability due to the combination of the windy conditions and the proximity of a large number of yachts in the area due to the race taking place at the same time. On arriving at the scene, the volunteer crew found that they were unable to contact the skipper via VHF due to power failure on the yacht. The volunteer crew therefore relayed instructions to the skipper by using a loud hailer and requested the skipper to continue to sail into the bay where the lifeboat passed lines for an alongside tow. The yacht was then taken safely to the Tobermory Harbour pontoons.

Tobermory RNLI Coxswain David McHaffie said: ‘The skipper made absolutely the right call to request assistance given the traffic density and wind conditions. We’re all pleased that we managed to swiftly achieve the alongside tow and assist the yacht to the pontoons’.

RNLI media contacts

Dr Sam Jones, Tobermory RNLI Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer and Lifeboat Operations Manager on 07747601900 or [email protected]

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

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

RNLI Press Office, 01202 336789

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.

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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.

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