Islay RNLI help yacht caught in creels

The volunteer crew launched the all-weather Severn lifeboat The Helmut Schroder of Dunlossit II and made good speed down the Sound of Islay. The yacht was located in Craro Bay, off Gigha’s southwest.

Due to the restrictive nature of the bay for the all-weather lifeboat, the smaller Y-boat was deployed with two crew on board to offer assistance and inspect the situation further. It was found that the yacht’s propeller was caught in creel lines and the crew were able to cut the ropes to free the vessel. However, the yacht’s propellor was still fouled and due to the light winds, sailing was not an option. In such a remote location and with a single crew member on board, it was decided by the coxswain that towing the vessel to the nearest safe and suitable port was the most appropriate course of action.

The vessel was towed to Ardminish bay on the eastern side of Gigha where the crew managed to successfully transfer the vessel to the local coastguard team to be secured safely. Islay’s lifeboat was then ready to return to Port Askaig where it was moored and made ready for service by 8.30pm.

Islay RNLI wish to extend thanks to the coastguard team on Gigha for assisting. A spokesperson from Islay RNLI said: ‘We are glad this was a successful rescue with a good outcome. At this time of year, we start to see more boats heading out, often having been stationary for many months. Before taking to the water, it is important to inspect your vessel fully; check your engine and ensure all safety and navigation equipment is operational before heading out to enjoy the spring weather.’. You can find lots of useful advice on the RNLI.org website: https://rnli.org/safety/choose-your-activity/yacht-sailing-and-motorboating

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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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