Largs RNLI assist RIB near Dunoon
On Tuesday 7 April 2026 just after 7:20pm the pagers of the volunteer crew at Largs RNLI lifeboat were activated.
HM Coastguard had requested the launch of the lifeboat in response to reports of a small grey RIB, with one person onboard, which appeared to be having engine problems located south of the Gantocks.
The crew made their way to the lifeboat station where relief inshore lifeboat ‘Susan Margaret Forsbrey’ was launched.
The Coastguard had been unable to reach the person onboard the RIB, however they could be seen from the shore so updates were relayed to the lifeboat volunteers as they made their way to the drifting vessel.
When the lifeboat arrived on scene the volunteer crew were able to speak with the person on board the casualty RIB, who was only able to get the engine to run in small bursts. Although well equipped, wearing a lifejacket and carrying a phone in a waterproof case it was clear they were having serious problems with their engine. They were able to restart the engine, however it failed again repeatedly.
Due to the approaching sunset, and the distance still required before they were safely home in their berth, the helm of the lifeboat made the decision to establish a tow. The casualty vessel was safely towed to the nearest safe haven, Holy Loch Marina.
On arrival at Holy Loch Marina the casualty vessel, and the person onboard, were safely passed into the care of the local Coastguard Rescue Team.
Largs lifeboat was stood down by HM Coastguard, returned to the lifeboat station where it was cleaned, refuelled and made ready for service.
In a coastal, beach or cliff emergency you should always dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard.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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