Jet-ski rescue for Mudeford RNLI

The crew of the fishing vessel had recovered both individuals, one of whom had been in the water for approximately 30 minutes and was showing signs of hypothermia and reduced consciousness. The second person had managed to remain aboard the jet ski but was reported to be cold and shaken.

The fishing crew had taken the jet ski in tow and were providing initial care to the casualties when they raised concerns for the welfare of the individuals and called for assistance.

Mudeford RNLI’s Atlantic 85 lifeboat, Henrietta H, launched at 5.28pm and arrived on scene at 5.33pm. On arrival, two trained Mudeford RNLI casualty care crew members were transferred to the fishing vessel to assess the situation.

Given the condition of the person who had been in the water, the crew made the decision to conduct an immediate medical evacuation. Both casualties were taken aboard the lifeboat and transported swiftly back to Mudeford Lifeboat Station for continued care while awaiting the arrival of an ambulance.

Following the successful medevac, the lifeboat relaunched with a fresh crew to rendezvous once again with the fishing vessel and retrieve the jet ski. The Helm made the decision to take over the tow and returned the jet ski safely to Mudeford Quay, where it was secured for later collection by the owners.

Also in attendance were members of the Southbourne Coastguard Rescue Team, who supported the operation alongside RNLI shore crew.

Mudeford RNLI volunteer Helm, Andy Read, said, ‘This incident highlights the importance of quick-thinking teamwork and skilled casualty care. Thanks to everyone’s actions, the casualties received the help they needed promptly, and the situation was resolved safely. Mudeford RNLI would like to thank the crew of the fishing vessel for their swift action in recovering the jet skiers and providing initial assistance.’

The Mudeford RNLI lifeboat, Henrietta H, has launched 19 times this year so far. In 2024 the Mudeford RNLI volunteer crew attended 82 shouts and 85 shouts in 2023.

Key facts about the RNLI

The RNLI charity 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 146,000 lives.

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Contacting the RNLI - public enquiries

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