Queensferry RNLI responds to a dismasted 30ft yacht in the Firth of Forth

Queensferry Lifeboat volunteers had just reached Hawes Pier, returning from an earlier tasking to 4 adults and 2 children cut off by the tide on Cramond Island, when the PAN PAN was heard over the radio.

The crew kept the lifeboat, the Jimmie Cairncross, afloat to await further updates on the situation. As there were other vessels in the area that had also responded to the distress signal, the lifeboat was initially tasked by HM Coastguard to stand by and assist the vessel if required.

The dismasted yacht had lost use of its radio due to the damage suffered in the dismasting incident. However, a nearby yacht had confirmed that all persons on board were safe and well. As the crew arrived on scene, the boat was found to have drifted northward towards Limekilns.

Two crew members were put on board to help the casualty crew secure the mast and sail on the deck. The forestay had to be cut to allow for all of the debris to be safely brought on board.

Once the mast was safely secured and it was ensured there was nothing in the water nearby the propeller, the yacht and crew were able to make their own way back to Port Edgar. However, as the vessels maneuverability and visibility had been compromised, the lifeboat shadowed the vessel to its berth and a lifeboat crew member remained on board to assist. The vessel was met at Port Edgar and assisted at its berth by South Queensferry Coastguard Rescue Teams.

The lifeboat returned to station and was refuelled and made ready for service at 6.18pm.

Notes to editors

• Across all incidents in 2025, Queensferry RNLI Lifeboat Station launched 101 times, saving 4 lives and aiding 119 people caught in difficulty in the water

• Queensferry RNLI lifeboat station has been operating since 1967