Largs Lifeboat launched after Pan Pan Broadcast from Yacht with Engine failure.

On arrival at the boathouse the volunteer crew were made aware of the yachts plight and were advised that HM Coastguard were currently trying to pinpoint the yachts position as initial information was vague, but could they launch and head in the direction of Kip Marina.

Whilst proceeding the Lifeboat crew were advised that the yacht had made further radio communication with HM Coastguard via VHF radio and had given an updated position and had advised that another yacht was standing by to assist if required.

On arrival the volunteer crew found the yacht had drifted closer to the shore and after the helm having assessed the situation on scene and due to the danger of the yacht going aground it was decided that the safest option would be to place the vessel under tow and take them into Kip marina.

Once inside the marina the yacht and with assistance of local Coastguard rescue team members was tied up alongside a berth.

With thanks from HM Coastguard and the yachts owner the volunteer crew were released from service and returned to station where the Lifeboat was recovered washed down, refuelled and made ready for the next service call.

Commenting on the call out RNLI Helm Angus Fergusson stated, as a skipper it is important to know when and how to send a Pan Pan broadcast, in this case of a yacht suffering from engine failure and drifting the correct choice of alert was used. It is always important to do daily engine checks on your vessel prior to leaving any marina or harbour. Personally, I like to use the mnemonic ‘WOBBLED’ – Water, Oil, Belts, Bilges, Leaks, Electrics and Diesel. Simple checks like this can reduce failures.

RNLI media contacts

Brian Rankin, Lifeboat Press Officer, 07810862468, [email protected]

Claire McRae, Lifeboat Press Officer, 07738681546, [email protected]

Natasha Bennett, RNLI Regional Media Officer for Scotland, 07826 900639, [email protected]

Martin McNamara, RNLI Regional Media Manager for Scotland, 07920 365929, [email protected]

RNLI Press Office, 01202 336789

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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 over 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 142,200 lives.