Port Erin RNLI lifeboat assists stranded vessel

At approximately 1.30pm, Port Erin RNLI lifeboat B-813 Muriel and Leslie launched with helm Tony Mitchell, and volunteer crew Iain Wilkinson, Liam Farrar and Matthew Perry on board. The wind was a fresh westerly, Force 4-5.

The lifeboat proceeded to the casualty vessel, where the crew spoke to both persons on board, who confirmed that, although feeling seasick, were safe and well but had run out of fuel. They had only just purchased the boat, were wearing lifejackets and had a VHF radio, but had a lack of other kit on board.

The crew decided that the best course of action was to take the casualty vessel under tow to the nearest harbour, which was Port Erin. Had the boat been left any longer, there were concerns it could have ended up on the rocks due to the wind direction.

Port Erin RNLI lifeboat proceeded at a speed of 4-5 knots with a crew member on board the vessel under tow, as the passengers of the broken down vessel were unsure of the best place to fasten the tow rope.

Once in Port Erin Bay, the crew went from a stern tow to an alongside tow to the jetty, where they met the shore crew and Port Erin Coastguard team.

Following discussion with the team, it was decided to move from the jetty to the Raglan Pier due to tides and the weather conditions.

RNLI Helm Tony Mitchell said:

‘As we see an increase in pleasure craft in our inshore waters for the summer months, it is a timely reminder for vessel owners to always carry a means of calling for help, flotation devices for all on board, and to also ensure that there is adequate fuel onboard for the journey being undertaken. Should something go wrong, dial 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.’