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RNLI Tighnabruaich launches for yacht rescue on Loch Fyne.

Lifeboats News Release

HM Coastguard deployed the inshore lifeboat from RNLI Tighnabruaich in response to a distress call from a family on a charter yacht which had smoke in the vessel cabin and had suffered engine failure.

The inshore lifeboat launching from it's trailer into the Kyles of Bute

RNLI/Jane Boyd

Inshore lifeboat launch

Launching just after 9.30 am on Thursday 11 July, the volunteer lifeboat crew set course for Loch Fyne. Arriving on scene they found the Portavadie to Tarbert Calmac service had the yacht alongside, and had evacuated the family of four from the stricken craft to safety on board the ferry.

Following an initial assessment by lifeboat crew, one adult remained with the two children on the ferry to Tarbert and the yacht’s skipper returned to the casualty vessel to steer as it was taken under tow by the inshore lifeboat to the safety of Tarbert harbour. The family were reunitied there under the care of Tarbert Coastguard Rescue Team, and the lifeboat was then able to journey back to Tighnabruaich Station.

On return to the lifeboat station all crew were stood down, and the lifeboat made ready for next service.

To stay safe in the water, an appropriate lifejacket or buoyancy aid should always be worn. If you see someone in trouble in the water, call 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.

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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.