Burry Port RNLI rescues crew of vessel in distress

In the late hours of 23rd November, Burry Port RNLI volunteers carried out a challenging rescue after shore crew spotted a small vessel in difficulty close to the lifeboat station. The incident occurred in complete darkness, with rough surf conditions adding urgency to the response.

At the time of the sighting, the station’s Atlantic 85 lifeboat was already attending another call-out. With a second emergency unfolding nearby, the volunteer crew swiftly launched the station’s D-class lifeboat to assist the vessel in distress.

On arrival, the lifeboat crew found two people on board a small craft struggling to remain stable. Although the vessel’s anchor had been deployed, worsening surf meant it was dragging, and waves were breaking over the bow.

Despite waves breaking across both the casualty vessel and the lifeboat, the crew managed to safely recover the two individuals. They were brought aboard the D-class lifeboat and transported back to Burry Port Harbour without further incident.

The casualty vessel, which had reportedly lost its outboard engine after taking a wave over the stern, later washed up on rocks near the harbour slipway.

RNLI Team Acknowledged

The RNLI extended thanks to the casualties for their cooperation during the rescue and recognised the efforts of the volunteer crew involved: Helm Rob Davies and crew members Rhydian Bowen and Doug Humphries.

Drone footage showed rough waves at night as the Burry Port RNLI D-class lifeboat approached the stranded vessel, which was later seen washed up on rocks by the harbour.

If You Are Ever in an Emergency at Sea

If you ever find yourself in difficulty on the water, call for help immediately. Dial 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.
For general safety advice, information on staying safe at sea, or to learn more about the RNLI’s work, visit the RNLI’s official website or contact their helpline at 0300 300 9990.

The RNLI urges everyone to carry a means of calling for help, wear appropriate safety equipment, and never hesitate to raise the alarm.


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