The tasking was to proceed approximately 27 miles east of Wick to provide assistance and safety cover for fishing vessels affected by engine failures. The weather at the time of the service was challenging. A south-westerly wind of 25 knots, gusting to 30 knots, was generating a 2.5 to 3 metre swell. These conditions created a difficult working environment offshore, particularly for vessels without power or manoeuvrability.
On arrival at the scene, the lifeboat crew found a deteriorating situation. One fishing vessel had initially suffered engine failure and was being towed. However, the vessel conducting the tow had subsequently lost its own engine power, leaving both vessels unable to manoeuvre. This significantly increased the risk, with both vessels exposed to wind and sea conditions.
A third fishing vessel in the vicinity was able to assist. This vessel took over the tow of the first casualty, restoring control to one part of the situation. The second disabled vessel remained without propulsion.
Wick Lifeboat maintained close safety cover, holding position nearby and monitoring the vessel’s condition while awaiting further assistance. The Coastguard Emergency Towing Vessel,
Levoli Black, was tasked to the incident, with an estimated time of arrival of approximately 12 noon.
During this period, the lifeboat crew remained on scene in challenging sea conditions, ensuring the situation remained stable and ready to intervene if required. On arrival, the
Levoli Black assumed control of the incident and with the situation stabilised, Wick Lifeboat was released from the incident.
The lifeboat returned to Wick, arriving at 1.20pm Following recovery, the vessel was refuelled and made ready for further service, restoring full operational readiness. This service highlights the importance of rapid response and coordinated effort at sea. What began as a single mechanical failure developed into a more complex situation involving multiple vessels. Through effective teamwork between fishing crews, the lifeboat, and Coastguard assets, the incident was resolved safely.
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.
