Islay RNLI rescue yacht off coast of Islay

The RNLI Severn-class lifeboat Helmut Schroder of Dunlossit II launched with six crew on board from Port Askaig and made good speed down the Sound of Jura. With strong winds and a one metre swell, the conditions were challenging. The lifeboat located the yacht which had one person on board.

The yacht was having engine issues and the decision was made on scene to tow them to the nearest safe and suitable port, so they were not in danger to themselves or other vessels on the water. Upon reaching Port Ellen the vessel was secured with assistance from the local coastguard team.

Islay’s lifeboat crew made way back to Port Askaig and after the lifeboat was made ready for service, they were back ashore by midday.

Islay RNLI Coxswain, David MacLellan, said: ‘This incident highlights the need to always ensure you carry a means of calling for help at sea like a VHF radio or Personal Locator Beacon. If you get into trouble, use channel 16, or call 999 from a mobile phone. We are thankful to have had a positive outcome to this call-out and thank you to those who assisted.’.

Key facts about the RNLI

The RNLI is the charity that 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 146,700 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.