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RNLI Tighnabruaich launch twice within hours to assist yacht.

Lifeboats News Release

Crew mustered in response to reports of a yacht run aground in the nearby narrows by Colintraive at 3.30 on Saturday 12 October. The rising tide assisted and the charter yacht was soon afloat again, but RNLI volunteers proceeded to check both yacht and those aboard were unharmed.

The Atlantic 85 inshore lifeboat launches from it's trailer

RNLI/Jane Boyd

The Atlantic 85 inshore lifeboat launches from a tractor and trailer

Crew on the Atlantic 85 gave advice on mooring options nearby as the weather was set to deteriorate and the yacht’s eight crew appeared inexperienced. Their plan however was to continue across Loch Fyne to meet others, and the Coastguard requested they confirm their eventual arrival in Tarbert. The James and Helen Mason inshore lifeboat returned to the station and was made ready for next service.

Lifeboat crew getting on with their Saturday evening were also maintaining a watchful eye on the yacht’s progress. By 18.00hrs with the yacht around Ardlamont Point, it was observed the yacht was not making headway so might need further assistance. Just after 19.00 the yacht issued a pan pan; they were trying to return to Tighnabruaich to a mooring but were experiencing engine issues.

As the yacht was struggling to pick up a mooring buoy, the Atlantic 85 launched again to help ensure the yacht was safely moored for the night, and escorted the young crew safely ashore. A member of RNLI shore crew walked to the nearby hotel to request the kitchen stay open later so the yacht crew could get dinner as they had no provisions on board. The inshore lifeboat returned to station and, again, made ready for next service.

When sailing always check the weather and tide times, carry a means of calling or signalling for help, and have the appropriate level of training for the craft. If help is required, 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.