Donate now

Islay RNLI launch to becalmed yacht off Gigha

Lifeboats News Release

Yesterday, Sunday 23 July at 6.41pm, Islay RNLI were requested to launch to a becalmed yacht north of Gigha. The yacht was suffering engine problems and drifting, with two persons and a dog on board.

Lifeboat to the right of the picture with the paps of Jura in the background. It is dusk with a pink and yellow light in a cloudy sky.

RNLI/Islay RNLI

Islay RNLI lifeboat returning home to Port Askaig

Islay’s all-weather Severn lifeboat launched from Port Askaig with five volunteer crew. It was a clear, calm evening with light north-east winds as the lifeboat made way down the Sound of Islay. Upon reaching the vessel the decision was made to tow the yacht to the nearest safe and suitable port, Ardminish Bay.

The crew secured a towline and towed the yacht to Gigha where they could moor safely for the night. Islay’s crew then made way back home to Port Askaig, returning at 9.40pm. The lifeboat was refuelled and ready for service at 10.15pm.

If you see somebody in trouble on the water or along the coast or think that they are in trouble, use marine VHF Ch 16 or dial 999 or 112 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, Twitter 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.

Categories