Boat House Open 2 - 4pm Daily - Free to enter
13/10/23
13/10/23
13/10/23
Shout #76
RNLB Frank and Anne Wilkinson (Relief Tamar All-Weather Lifeboat 16-06) set sail this morning at 8.20 am after receiving a request from the UK (Solent) Coastguard. The request followed a sighting of a light, possibly from a lifejacket, in the south of Portsmouth harbour.
They quickly reached the search area and initiated a parallel track search comprising of 20 legs. Gosport and Fareham Inshore Rescue Service (GAFIRS) were also directed to execute a similar search nearer to the shore.
With the search completed and no findings, the UK (Solent) Coastguard released all assets, and our crew then returned to Bembridge.
Duration 2.5Hrs
03/10/23
13/10/23
13/10/23
Shout #75
RNLB Frank and Anne Wilkinson (relief Tamar All Weather Lifeboat 16-06) was launched today (Tuesday 3 October at 13:35) at the request of UK (Solent) Coastguard to assist a 23 foot single skipper motorboat which had fouled its anchor in the vicinity of No Mans Land Fort and was reported to be taking on water.
The TS Royalist was in the area prior to the arrival of Frank and Anne Wilkinson and once on scene, after considering the options, the decision was made to tow the casualty to Portsmouth. A member of the lifeboat crew was transferred to assist with the tow. Once safely moored at Gosport Marina, the Frank and Anne Wilkinson returned to Bembridge and was recovered at 15.30.
Sea conditions were reasonable with a north westerly force 4/5 breeze.
Duration 2Hrs
23/09/23
13/10/23
23/09/23
Shout #74
RNLB Norman Harvey (D-778 Inshore Lifeboat) was launched by the UK (Solent) Coastguard after reports of cries for help were heard from a motor cruiser moored at the visitor pontoon in Bembridge Harbour earlier this evening (Friday 23rd September at 23:28).
The Bembridge Coastguard Rescue Team arrived at the scene first and discovered two casualties. One of them had allegedly fallen overboard and injured their head, while the other had entered the water to save them. By this time, both had made their way back to the motor cruiser.
The Norman Harvey reached the scene at 23:45 to aid the coastguard in conducting their preliminary examinations. After the ambulance arrived at 00:10, the casualty was transferred, and our team was subsequently released, returning to Lane End and recuperating at 00:50.
The sea conditions were reasonable, with a northwesterly breeze of Force 4.
Duration 2Hrs
17/09/23
17/09/23
23/09/23
Shout #69
Earlier today at 11:40 am, the UK (Solent) Coastguard requested the launch of RNLB Frank and Anne Wilkinson (relief Tamar All-Weather Lifeboat 16-06) to aid a 40-foot yacht with three crew members aboard that had run aground near the inner entrance to Bembridge Harbour while departing for its home port.
The yacht was being pushed towards the lee shore of St Helens Duver. During the event, it was discovered that half an hour prior, the Bembridge Sailing Club boatman had noticed the yacht and pulled it back into the deeper part of the channel.
After verifying that the yacht had safely left the Channel, RNLB Frank and Anne Wilkinson returned to the Boathouse where they were recovered by 12.30 pm.
The shore crew were commendable today in severely turbulent weather conditions (SE Force 6), featuring heavy rain, thunderstorms, and lightning.
Duration 1Hr
05/09/23
17/09/23
05/09/23
Shout #68
The UK (Solent) Coastguard requested the launch of RNLB Frank and Anne Wilkinson, relief Tamar All-Weather Lifeboat 16-06, earlier this morning (5.30am Tuesday 5 September) to aid in the search for a missing swimmer off Selsey yesterday evening.
Selsey RNLI, Hayling Island RNLI, Portsmouth RNLI, GAFIRS, and Coastguard Helicopter Rescue 175 had all conducted searches overnight that yielded no results. Conditions were favourable (Force 4 Easterly) which enabled a prompt arrival at the search area and the swift commencement of the search operation.
At 9.50am, in the absence of any indication of the whereabouts of the missing swimmer, the Frank and Anne Wilkinson was released by the UK (Solent) Coastguard, and she was back on the slipway just after 10am.
Duration 4.5Hrs
30/08/23
17/09/23
05/09/23
Shout #66/67
RNLB Frank and Anne Wilkinson (relief lifeboat Tamar All-Weather Lifeboat 16-06) launched early this evening (5.40 BST Wed 30 Aug) at the request of UK (Solent) Coastguard to assist an ocean rowing boat with four crew in difficulty against the strong tide and F5 westerly breeze off St Catherine's Point.
Sandown & Shanklin Inshore Rescue had also been tasked but had requested assistance from Bembridge RNLI to complete a joint rescue.
We arrived on the scene at around 5.48pm and after assessing the situation it was agreed between the teams that it was too dangerous to tow the rowing boat with the crew on board so they were transferred to the Frank and Anne Wilkinson which then returned to the Offshore Lifeboat Station and was recovered at 6.50pm.
Meanwhile, Sandown Independent Lifeboat towed the rowing boat to its mooring off Sandown. RNLB Norman Harvey (D-778) was subsequently launched at 7pm and went round to Sandown Bay and towed the rowing boat to Bembridge Harbour.
After being fed and watered at the Bembridge Inshore lifeboat station, the four crew were taken down to the harbour by the local Coastguard Rescue Team and reunited with their boat.
The Norman Harvey then returned to Lane End and was recovered at 9:15 pm.
A great multiteam effort tonight.
29/08/23
29/08/23
29/08/23
Shout #65
RNLB Norman Harvey (D-778) was launched earlier this evening (Tuesday 29 August) at around 6.10pm at the request of UK (Solent) Coastguard to provide observation and any other assistance required following a report that someone had been observed close to the edge of Culver Cliff.
Conditions were calm so it did not take them long to reach Whitecliff Bay. After a shore-line search around to Yaverland and news that the person reported was safe, the Norman Harvey was stood down and returned to Lane End. She was recovered by 7pm.
27/08/23
29/08/23
29/08/23
Shout #63
The Norman Harvey then re-launched at around 6pm and took the skipper and one other member of the crew back to the RIB which was, by that time, afloat. Having recovered the loaned anchor, and having ascertained that the RIB's engine was usable, they escorted her into Bembridge Harbour for a more detailed check-up and subsequent repairs to the bottom end of the engine if required.
She then returned to Lane End and was recovered by 6.45pm
20/08/23
20/08/23
20/08/23
Shout #62
RNLB Frank and Anne Wilkinson (Relief Tamar All-Weather Lifeboat 16-06) was launched this afternoon (Monday 21 August at 3.47) at the request of UK (Solent) Coastguard to assist 4 people (1 adult and 3 children, all wearing lifejackets) who were in the water following the sinking of their 17ft angling boat off Puckpool.
Although out of the water and safely on board another vessel, both Gosport & Fareham Inshore Rescue (GAFIRS) and Bembridge's all-weather lifeboat were called to the incident.
In this case, GAFIRS arrived first and transferred the casualties to their lifeboat and having established that they were fit and well and from Bembridge, it was agreed that they would be transferred to us and taken back to the Bembridge where the Bembridge Coastguard Rescue Team were present.
Frank and Anne Wilkinson and her crew including 4 casualties were back safely at 4.30pm. Everyone was in good health and we thank all the other teams for making this a successful day.
#gafirs#bembridgernli#bembridgelifeboat#rnlilifeboat#onecrew#isleofwight#savinglivesatsea#bembridgecoastguard
Different badge, same mission.
Sea conditions were light with an F3-F4 south-westerly breeze.
Duration 45mins
20/08/23
20/08/23
20/08/23
Shout #61
During this afternoon (Sunday 20 August)
Our Open Day display, RNLB Norman Harvey (Inshore Lifeboat D-778) was tasked at 2.25 pm by UK (Solent) Coastguard to locate and assist as required a paddle boarder reported to have possible minor injuries in the vicinity of the Paddock Drive slipway. 2.45 pm
Conditions were pretty benign (SWF3-F4) so it did not take long to locate the paddle boarder and after a quick check by one of the crew, all was found to be ok and the individual was happy to make their own way home.
On completion, the Norman Harvey then returned to Lane End (2.45 pm) and continued with the Open Day display.
Duration 20mins
18/08/23
20/08/23
18/08/23
Shout #59/60
RNLB Frank and Anne Wilkinson (Relief Tamar All Weather Lifeboat 16-06) was launched this morning (11.50 am Friday 18 August) at the request of UK (Solent) Coastguard to assess and, if necessary, assist a 40ft sailing yacht with 2 crew on board which had suffered engine failure near No Mans Land Fort and was unable to make its own way to Portsmouth under sail. Conditions were challenging (easterly force 5-6 with a moderate/rough sea) but it did not take long for Frank and Anne Wilkinson to locate the yacht and, having transferred a crew member to the yacht, it was decided that a tow to Portsmouth was the safest option. Once the yacht was safely alongside at Haslar Marina, they stayed alongside as conditions on the slipway back at Bembridge were too rough to recover. At around 15:15 they were reassigned to locate and assist a 38ft yacht with an injured skipper and 6 other crew off Osborne Bay, but before they got there Cowes RNLI's Atlantic 85 had dealt with the incident. With conditions at the Bembridge slipway still reported as marginal, they then filled in some time by carrying out some training with the Coastguard Helicopter Rescue 175. The Frank and Anne Wilkinson then returned to the Offshore Boathouse and was recovered by 6 pm.
Duration 6hrs
12/08/23
12/08/23
12/08/23
Shout#58
RNLB Frank and Anne Wilkinson (Relief Tamar All-Weather Lifeboat 16-06) was launched early this evening (7.10 pm Saturday 12 August) at the request of the Coastguard to assess and, if necessary, assist a 33ft sailing yacht with 4 crew on board that had been dismasted approximately 3 miles south-east of the station.
Although the yacht's crew had reported that they had the situation under control and were salvaging what they could of the mast and rigging, it was agreed that Frank and Anne Wilkinson would stand by in case assistance was required, especially as Chimet was blowing 20 knots from the SW.
It was not long before Frank and Anne Wilkinson reached the yacht and transferred two of the lifeboat crew to her to assess the situation. After considering the options, it was decided that the safest course of action was to tow the yacht into Bembridge Harbour. Once the yacht was safely alongside Attrill's pontoon, the Frank and Anne Wilkinson returned to the Offshore Boathouse and was back in the harbour by 21:30.
On a brighter note, our crew who boarded the yacht were treated to cake and water. So not all bad. Thanks to all the crew afloat and ashore, for today’s shout.
Duration 2hrs
06/08/23
12/08/23
12/08/23
Shout#57
The RNLB Frank and Anne Wilkinson (relief Tamar All-Weather Lifeboat 16-06) (ALB) was launched late this afternoon (Sunday 5.36 pm) at the request of the Coast Guard to assist a 24-foot motor cruiser with two people onboard that had broken down close to the Bembridge Ledge Buoy.
A Force 4 Westerly breeze meant that it did not take them long to reach the casualty vessel and having weighed up the options it was decided to put her under tow to Bembridge Harbour.
Arrangements were made with the Harbour Master and a Harbour Water Taxi took over the tow just outside the inner harbour entrance at 5.58 pm. Thanks to them for their assistance.
The ALB and her crew then returned safely to the Boathouse and re-housed by 6.20 pm.
Thanks again to all the crew involved.
Duration 6hrs
02/08/23
12/08/23
02/08/23
Shout#56 (Second today)
RNLB Frank and Anne Wilkinson (relief Tamar All-Weather Lifeboat 16-06) was launched earlier this afternoon (3.12 pm, Wednesday 2 August) at the request of UK (Solent) Coastguard to medivac a crew member with a compound fracture from one of the flotilla of Clipper Venture yachts.
Conditions were quite rough in the Force-6 WSW'erly breeze but it did not take them long to reach the yacht once the right one had been identified!
As it was initially too rough to safely transfer the casualty to the Frank and Anne Wilkinson It was decided to transfer two of the lifeboat crew to the yacht. Once done it was agreed the Lifeboat would accompany the yacht back to Gosport Marina where an ambulance was ready to take the casualty to hospital.
After this had been successfully achieved and the crew members were back onboard, the Frank and Anne Wilkinson returned to the Boathouse and was re-housed by 6 pm.
Thanks again to all the crew involved.
Duration 3hrs
02/08/23
02/08/23
02/08/23
Shout#55
RNLB Norman Harvey (Inshore Lifeboat D-778) was launched earlier this afternoon (1.06 pm Wednesday 2nd August) following a report that a boat had been spotted being blown offshore by strong winds (Chimet South Westerly F8 34 knots)
Given the wind direction, it did not take them long to reach the dinghy which was unmanned and bring it back (considerably slower) to the Inshore Boathouse. The Norman Harvey was safely recovered by 1.50 pm.
Duration 45mins
21/07/23
02/08/23
21/07/23
Shout#50-54
RNLB Frank and Anne Wilkinson (relief Tamar All-Weather Lifeboat 16-06) launched twice today at the request of the UK (Solent) Coastguard. Firstly at 10.55 am following a PanPan call from a 26ft sailing yacht with two crew reported to be 5nm SW of St Catherine's Point without power.
Subsequently, UK (Solent) CG requested that the Frank and Anne Wilkinson re-launch to assist the same yacht which by that time was off the Bembridge Ledge and struggling to get to her home port of Langstone Harbour. The yacht was taken under tow to the entrance of Langstone Harbour where she was handed over the Portsmouth RNLI's.
On her way back to Bembridge the Frank and Anne Wilkinson was re-tasked to locate an 11m Danish yacht with 2 crew onboard.
Whilst in the process of doing this UK (Solent) CG requested that RNLB Norman Harvey (Inshore Lifeboat D-778) to be launched to locate a swimmer reported as possibly being in difficulty south of St Helens Fort. The ILB was launched and quickly located the swimmer safely ashore. The Norman Harvey, therefore, returned to Lane End and recovered by 5.15 pm.
In the meantime, the Frank and Anne Wilkinson ascertained the Danish yacht had mechanical problems so they set up a tow to Endeavour Quay, Portsmouth. Once safely berthed, the Frank and Anne Wilkinson returned to Bembridge and was recovered by 7 pm.
Duration All day
08/07/23
02/08/23
21/07/23
Shout#49
RNLB Frank and Anne Wilkinson (relief Tamar All-Weather Lifeboat 16-06) was launched earlier this evening (8.08 pm Saturday 8th July) at the request of the local Police (through UK (Solent) Coastguard) to assist in the search for a missing person who was reported as possibly being in the Culver Down area.
Both local Coastguard Rescue Teams (Bembridge and Ventnor) were also tasked. Sea conditions were very benign so it did not take them long to reach Whitecliff Bay.
The Y-boat was then deployed to carry out a shoreline/base of the cliffs search while the All-Weather Lifeboat stood off and searched the cliffs themselves.
After a thorough search by both boats, including checking out possible objects that the local Coastguard Rescue Teams had spotted in the water, the Y-boat was re-embarked and the Frank and Anne Wilkinson returned to the Offshore Boathouse and was re-housed by 10.15 pm.
Duration 2.25hrs
01/07/23
01/07/23
01/07/23
A long but satisfying day for RNLB Alfred Albert Williams (Tamar All-Weather Lifeboat 16-17) having launched for training at 11 am today (Saturday 1st July) and not rehousing until 6.30 pm.
However, the crew of the Alfred Albert Williams were not the only people who had an 'interesting' day as the shore crew found themselves looking after 14 crew/passengers & a dog from a 60-foot Catamaran that capsized off the Ledge who were brought to the Offshore Boathouse by some support/spectator RIBs. The shore crew did a magnificent job looking after the wet and cold casualties and a number had minor injuries. One ended up being taken by Ambulance to St Mary's Hospital Newport.
At 1 pm the Alfred Albert Williams was tasked by the UK (Solent) Coastguard to go to the assistance of a 40-foot yacht with 6 crew onboard who had issued a Mayday call after one of the crew had suffered a head injury when they fell on a winch.
One of the Lifeboat crew was transferred to the yacht and having carried out immediate first aid & stabilised the casualty, assisted his transfer to St Mary's Hospital Newport by a Coastguard Helicopter.
The Alfred Albert Williams then continued to provide a presence as yachts rounded the Ledge and headed back to Cowes. Although her direct assistance was not required, she stood by a monohull yacht that lost her mast after rounding the Ledge, and then finally she was tasked by the UK (Solent) Coastguard to locate the drifting upturned catamaran and to try to tow her to a safe location so she was not a hazard to shipping. In the event, on reaching the upturned catamaran that had drifted about three miles east of the Lifeboat Station there was another vessel that had been commissioned by the owner to anchor the drifting catamaran and standby her until she could be recovered.
The Alfred Albert Williams then returned to Bembridge and was rehoused by 6.30 pm.
**All local RNLI and Independent lifeboats + coastguard + helicopter, all proved we can work together for you all **
Duration 7.5hrs
29/06/23
01/07/23
01/07/23
On Thursday 29th June the Bembridge RNLB Alfred Albert Williams (Tamar All-Weather Lifeboat (ALB) 16-17) was launched on service at 11:58 at the request of the UK (Solent Coastguard) to investigate an activated Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) omitting a signal around the Hayling Island area.
Helicopter 175 was also on the scene to assist in the search.
The ALB and Helicopter both performed an expanding search using the PLB’s signal to home in on its location. Whilst this was going on the Lifeboat Station and UK Coastguard were trying to track down the owners of the device to ascertain how this device got there as no boats/casualties were reported in distress.
Sea conditions were reasonable (WSW F2) so they were able to begin their search promptly. After a search of 30 minutes, the owner was located and reported the device has been missing for a while and no one should be using it.
Once the Coastguard confirmed it was a false alarm, all search and rescue units were stood down.
The ALB and her crew returned to Bembridge at 1 .50pm and were recovered straight away thanks to the shore crew.
25/06/23
01/07/23
25/06/23
3rd Shout of the weekend!!! 42nd of the year!!!
RNLB Norman Harvey (Inshore Lifeboat D-778) was launched just before 4 pm (Sunday 25th June) at the request of UK (Solent) Coastguard to assist two paddle boarders who had been reported as possibly being in difficulty off St Helens Fort.
They had not gone far before they received the news that the people concerned had been picked up by a passing boat and taken to safety.
The Norman Harvey was then stood down and safely returned to Lane End and re-housed by 5.30 pm.
There was quite a stiff SSW breeze (18 + knots) so certainly not a flat calm!
24/06/23
24/06/23
25/06/23
RNLB Norman Harvey (Inshore Lifeboat D-778) was launched at 3 pm this afternoon (Saturday 24th June) at the request of Bembridge Coastguard Rescue Team via the UK (Solent) Coastguard to carry out a welfare check on a person who had apparently come ashore from a small sailing yacht in Whitecliff Bay. Conditions were pretty calm (SW F3) so it did not take them long to reach the area and liaise with the local Coastguard Rescue Team.
Having ascertained that another person on the yacht wanted to come ashore, the Norman Harvey brought them to the beach to join his friend.
Having returned to the skipped of the yacht to perform a welfare check, who assured the crew of the Norman Harvey that he was happy to continue on his own, they were stood down and returned to Lane End. However prior to recovering, they were diverted to check on a RIB that looked as if it had run aground on the Ledge; having ascertained that they were not in any difficulty, the Norman Harvey and crew safely re-housed by 4.15 pm.
Thank you to the crew both boat and shore.
23/06/23
24/06/23
23/06/23
RNLB Alfred Albert Williams (Tamar All-Weather Lifeboat 16-17) was launched at 7.20 pm at the request of UK (Solent) Coastguard to medivac a passenger from the Queen Mary 2 that was off Cowes heading eastwards down the Solent having departed Southampton Docks earlier.
Sea conditions were reasonable (WSW F4) so they were able to RV with QM2 by 7.50 pm and effect a stretcher transfer of the casualty who, along with his wife, they then took back to Southampton Docks (Berth 21). Having handed the casualty over to the Ambulance Service, the Alfred Albert Williams then returned safely to Bembridge and was re-housed by 10.30 pm.
13/06/23
24/06/23
23/06/23
RNLB Norman Harvey (Inshore Lifeboat D-778) was launched at the request of UK (Solent) Coastguard at 6.52 pm this evening following a report that there were 3 swimmers possibly in difficulty between Ryde Harbour & Ryde Pier Head. Upon arrival, the crew found the swimmers ashore and after a welfare check, were stood down.
Conditions were calm so it did not take them long to reach the area only to find that the swimmers had managed to make their own way to safety. The Norman Harvey and her crew then returned to Lane End and re-housed by 7.45 pm.
Duration 50mins
11/06/23
11/06/23
11/06/23
Shout #38
RNLB Norman Harvey (Inshore Lifeboat D-778) was launched at the request of the UK (Solent) Coastguard at 6.02pm to locate/assist a paddle boarder who had been reported as being in difficulty off Yaverland.
However, they had not gone far before the paddle boarder was reported safely ashore so the shout was cancelled and the Norman Harvey returned to the Inshore Boathouse.
11/06/23
11/06/23
11/06/23
Shout #37
Shout #37
RNLB Alfred Albert Williams (Tamar All-Weather Lifeboat 16-17), was launched this afternoon (Sunday 11th June at 3.45 pm) at the request of UK (Solent) Coastguard to medivac a crew member from UAL Fortitude (a 139m general cargo ship out of Rotterdam) located about 10 miles SE of Bembridge who had a very badly injured finger.
With the Fortitude changing course to head towards Bembridge, and relatively benign conditions (SW'erly 3) it only took around 30 minutes for the Alfred Albert Williams to reach the ship; having safely effected a transfer, the Alfred Albert Williams then headed back into the Solent.
The initial plan was to go to Portsmouth Camber, however the Alfred Albert Williams developed an engine problem which restricted her to 10 knots so it was decided to bring the casualty back to the Offshore Boathouse for onward transportation to St Mary's Hospital. She and her crew were safely s re-housed by 5.45 pm.
Shout #37 part 2
RNLB Alfred Albert Williams (Tamar All-Weather Lifeboat 16-17), was re-launched this evening (Sunday 11th June at 6.23 pm) to take the casualty who had earlier been medevac'd from UAL Fortitude to Southampton for micro-surgery on their finger.
They were accompanied by Island based paramedics. The Alfred Albert Williams made excellent time to Berth 21 in Southampton arriving at 7.01 pm; she departed back to Bembridge (via Cowes to drop off the paramedics) 15 minutes later.
She was back safely at Bembridge by 8.14 pm and was re-housed by 8.30 pm.
07/06/23
11/06/23
07/06/23
Shout #36
RNLB Alfred Albert Williams (Tamar All-Weather Lifeboat 16-17), was about to re-house at 8.50pm after a training exercise when she was tasked by UK (Solent) Coastguard to locate and assist two people who had been reported as possibly being cut off by the tide on Ryde Sands.
Conditions were very calm so it did not take long to
Shout #36
RNLB Alfred Albert Williams (Tamar All-Weather Lifeboat 16-17), was about to re-house at 8.50pm after a training exercise when she was tasked by UK (Solent) Coastguard to locate and assist two people who had been reported as possibly being cut off by the tide on Ryde Sands.
Conditions were very calm so it did not take long to reach the edge of the sands; the Y boat was launched and headed inshore to see if they could locate anyone in difficulty. They quickly located two anglers who assured them that they were perfectly safe. The Y boat was then recovered and the Alfred Albert Williams headed back to Bembridge and was re-housed by 9.30pm.
06/06/23
06/06/23
07/06/23
RNLB Norman Harvey (Inshore Lifeboat D-778) was launched at 18:55 due to a member of the public spotting a few people in possible difficulty making their way to St Helens fort. Luckily they decided to turn back and the ILB was stood down.
04/06/23
06/06/23
04/06/23
Shout #35
The RNLB Norman Harvey (Inshore Lifeboat D-778) was launched at 17.48 after something had been spotted dropping into the water south of St Helens Fort.
Conditions were very calm so it did not take long for the crew to reach the area where they found a cluster of helium balloons.
They then returned to Lane End with the balloons o
Shout #35
The RNLB Norman Harvey (Inshore Lifeboat D-778) was launched at 17.48 after something had been spotted dropping into the water south of St Helens Fort.
Conditions were very calm so it did not take long for the crew to reach the area where they found a cluster of helium balloons.
They then returned to Lane End with the balloons onboard and were recovered by the shore crew at 18.30. Although in this event it was a false alarm, it was obviously something that needed to be checked out.
03/06/23
06/06/23
04/06/23
Shout #34
A training exercise that started at 12pm with a public launch and went into a training scenario, soon after they started, the RNLI's All-Weather Lifeboat (RNLB Alfred Albert Williams was tasked to help a rib which was taking on water at the request of (Solent) Coastguard, (with two families on board) the crew quickly arrived on s
Shout #34
A training exercise that started at 12pm with a public launch and went into a training scenario, soon after they started, the RNLI's All-Weather Lifeboat (RNLB Alfred Albert Williams was tasked to help a rib which was taking on water at the request of (Solent) Coastguard, (with two families on board) the crew quickly arrived on scene and escorted the boat to Bembridge harbour, shortly after leaving the boat the AlB was then tasked (job number 2) with a report of a person possibly in difficulty in the Shanklin Bay Area. Luckily the crew discovered it wasn’t a person in distress but a lobster pot. After a welfare check of the said pot, they were stood down and returned to the station at 16:45.
What was intended to be a 3hr training session quickly turned into an almost 5hr session.
02/06/23
02/06/23
02/06/23
Shout #33
2nd of the day - our amazing crew following an earlier discussion with Solent Coastguard this afternoon about a RIB from Portsmouth that had run aground in Priory Bay with 7 crew onboard (including 3 children), the RNLB Norman Harvey (D-778) ILB, was launched at 20:10 to see how long it was going to be before the RIB was afloat
Shout #33
2nd of the day - our amazing crew following an earlier discussion with Solent Coastguard this afternoon about a RIB from Portsmouth that had run aground in Priory Bay with 7 crew onboard (including 3 children), the RNLB Norman Harvey (D-778) ILB, was launched at 20:10 to see how long it was going to be before the RIB was afloat and able to make her own way back to Portsmouth with the two remaining crew onboard (the children and two adults having made their way back to Portsmouth).
Conditions were very benign so it did not take long for the Norman Harvey to locate the RIB; having assessed that it was probably another hour to an hour and a half before the RIB re-floated they then returned to Lane End with a view to re-launching later if needed. In the meantime, the Bembridge CRT remained on scene to keep an eye on things.
Fortunately, the RIB re-floated on the incoming tide and made their own way back to Portsmouth so the Norman Harvey ILB was stood down.
02/06/23
02/06/23
02/06/23
Shout #32
RNLB Alfred Albert Williams (Tamar All-Weather Lifeboat 16-17) was launched at 9.58am this morning (Friday 2nd June) at the request of UK (Solent) Coastguard to check on a 20 foot sailing yacht with one elderly person onboard who appeared to be in difficulty close to Ryde Marina.
It did not take them long to reach the yacht and
Shout #32
RNLB Alfred Albert Williams (Tamar All-Weather Lifeboat 16-17) was launched at 9.58am this morning (Friday 2nd June) at the request of UK (Solent) Coastguard to check on a 20 foot sailing yacht with one elderly person onboard who appeared to be in difficulty close to Ryde Marina.
It did not take them long to reach the yacht and deploy the Y boat so that the situation could be assessed. Having helped pull up the anchor a member of the Y boat crew remained on board having persuaded the skipper to motor to safety in Portsmouth with the Alfred Albert Williams escorting.
Once safely berthed in the Camber where the Hillhead Coastguard Rescue Team met them, the Alfred Albert Williams and her crew then returned safely to Bembridge and recovered by 12.30pm.
30/05/23
02/06/23
30/05/23
Shout #31
Having almost completed recovering this evening after launching for training and a scattering of Ashes Ceremony, RNLB Alfred Albert Williams (Tamar All-Weather Lifeboat 16-17) was re-launched at 19.30 at the request of UK (Solent) Coastguard to proceed to the area of Steep Hill Cove to assist search for someone reported as being
Shout #31
Having almost completed recovering this evening after launching for training and a scattering of Ashes Ceremony, RNLB Alfred Albert Williams (Tamar All-Weather Lifeboat 16-17) was re-launched at 19.30 at the request of UK (Solent) Coastguard to proceed to the area of Steep Hill Cove to assist search for someone reported as being in difficulty in the water.
However, they did not get very far before the shout was cancelled when the injured casualty was located ashore.
The Alfred Albert Williams then returned to Bembridge and was re-housed by 20.15.
30/04/23
30/04/23
30/05/23
Shout #30
The RNLB Norman Harvey (Inshore Lifeboat D-778) was launched at 19:15 Friday 26th May at the request of Solent Coastguard to assist the local Coastguard Rescue Teams to locate a casualty who had become trapped up to their waist in mud in the Nodes Point/Priory Bay area.
It did not take the crew long to reach the area; initially
Shout #30
The RNLB Norman Harvey (Inshore Lifeboat D-778) was launched at 19:15 Friday 26th May at the request of Solent Coastguard to assist the local Coastguard Rescue Teams to locate a casualty who had become trapped up to their waist in mud in the Nodes Point/Priory Bay area.
It did not take the crew long to reach the area; initially they transported the Coast Guard & Fire Brigades equipment (who were also involved) from the Old St Helens Church area to the casualty.
All teams worked together to free the young person and place them in a Coastguard stretcher back to the Old St Helens Church area where an Ambulance was waiting to check them over.
The crew safely returned (although very muddy) recovered by 22:15.
23/05/23
30/04/23
23/05/23
Shout #29
The Bembridge RNLB Norman Harvey (Inshore Lifeboat D-778) ILB was tasked during a training exercise at the request of (Solent) Coastguard after a member of the public thought they saw two swimmers in distress in the Shanklin area.
Other local support teams quickly arrived at the scene. The ILB stopped their exercise and quickly
Shout #29
The Bembridge RNLB Norman Harvey (Inshore Lifeboat D-778) ILB was tasked during a training exercise at the request of (Solent) Coastguard after a member of the public thought they saw two swimmers in distress in the Shanklin area.
Other local support teams quickly arrived at the scene. The ILB stopped their exercise and quickly made it on scene and discovered the two swimmers were divers fishing in the area. After a welfare check, it was found they were fine and no further action was needed. All teams confirmed it was safe to stand down. The ILB then resumed their training exercise.
20/05/23
30/04/23
23/05/23
Shout #28
The Bembridge RNLI's All-Weather Lifeboat (ALB) RNLB Alfred Albert Williams launched at 15:20 at the request of (Solent) Coastguard to support a 30ft Yacht (The Artemis) that had lost engine power in the Solent heading towards Portsmouth.
Conditions were good so the ALB and her crew made it quickly to the Yacht in question and t
Shout #28
The Bembridge RNLI's All-Weather Lifeboat (ALB) RNLB Alfred Albert Williams launched at 15:20 at the request of (Solent) Coastguard to support a 30ft Yacht (The Artemis) that had lost engine power in the Solent heading towards Portsmouth.
Conditions were good so the ALB and her crew made it quickly to the Yacht in question and took her under tow to Haslar Marina. After a welfare check; the crew of the Artemis were happy for us to stand down.
The ALB and her crew then made their way back to Bembridge station and safely arrived back at 17:30, cleaned down and ready to launch again should we need to.
14/05/23
14/05/23
14/05/23
Shout #27
The RNLB Alfred Albert Williams (Tamar All-Weather Lifeboat 16-17), was launched earlier this evening (19.15pm Sunday 14th May) at the request of UK (Solent) Coastguard to locate and assist three boys who had been cut off by the tide in the area between Luccombe and Bonchurch villages.
Conditions were pretty benign (Westerly For
Shout #27
The RNLB Alfred Albert Williams (Tamar All-Weather Lifeboat 16-17), was launched earlier this evening (19.15pm Sunday 14th May) at the request of UK (Solent) Coastguard to locate and assist three boys who had been cut off by the tide in the area between Luccombe and Bonchurch villages.
Conditions were pretty benign (Westerly Force 3) so it did not take the crew long (c19.30 pm) to reach the search area.
The boys, who had been cut off by the tide.
With assistance from the Y Boat crew they made it to the beach safely and were transferred to the Alfred Albert Williams and taken back to Bembridge where they were re-united with their parents. A nice successful outcome.
The Alfred Albert Williams and her crew were safely re-housed by 20:45pm.
05/05/23
14/05/23
14/05/23
Shout #26
The RNLB Alfred Albert Williams (Tamar All-Weather Lifeboat (ALB) 16-17), was tasked on immediate launch at 18:25 this evening (5th May) at the request of the UK (Solent) Coastguard to search for a missing person in the Ventnor area.
The crew launched within 10mins of the pager going off.
Luckily the missing person was located be
Shout #26
The RNLB Alfred Albert Williams (Tamar All-Weather Lifeboat (ALB) 16-17), was tasked on immediate launch at 18:25 this evening (5th May) at the request of the UK (Solent) Coastguard to search for a missing person in the Ventnor area.
The crew launched within 10mins of the pager going off.
Luckily the missing person was located before the ALB could get there and was quickly stood down and returned to the station and ready to launch again should we need to at 19:00.
04/05/23
14/05/23
04/05/23
Shout #25
The RNLB Alfred Albert Williams (Tamar All-Weather Lifeboat 16-17), was launched earlier this afternoon (12:35 pm) at the request of UK (Solent) Coastguard to assist an ex-Volvo 2008-2009 Round the World competitor
"Telefonica Black"
Located to the West of No Mans Land Fort with 6 crew onboard that had made a Pan-Pan call after
Shout #25
The RNLB Alfred Albert Williams (Tamar All-Weather Lifeboat 16-17), was launched earlier this afternoon (12:35 pm) at the request of UK (Solent) Coastguard to assist an ex-Volvo 2008-2009 Round the World competitor
"Telefonica Black"
Located to the West of No Mans Land Fort with 6 crew onboard that had made a Pan-Pan call after the top section of their mast had broken and they had a rope around their propeller.
In the event the new Pilot Boat Mayflower was first on the scene and established a tow, however having assessed the options it was agreed that the Alfred Albert Williams would tow the Telefonica Black to her berth in Gunwharf. Once inside Portsmouth harbour, the astern tow was transferred to an alongside tow to make bringing her alongside the pontoon easier.
On completion the Alfred Albert Williams and her crew returned safely back to Bembridge and were rehoused by 15:00.
30/04/23
30/04/23
04/05/23
Shout #25
The RNLB Alfred Albert Williams (Tamar All-Weather Lifeboat 16-17), was launched earlier this afternoon Sunday 30th April (12:45 pm) at the request of UK (Solent) Coastguard to locate and assist a 16ft angling boat with 2 crew that had broken down 7 miles southeast of St Catherine's Point.
Conditions were relatively calm (Force 2
Shout #25
The RNLB Alfred Albert Williams (Tamar All-Weather Lifeboat 16-17), was launched earlier this afternoon Sunday 30th April (12:45 pm) at the request of UK (Solent) Coastguard to locate and assist a 16ft angling boat with 2 crew that had broken down 7 miles southeast of St Catherine's Point.
Conditions were relatively calm (Force 2 SSE) so the Alfred Albert Williams was able to reach the broken-down vessel by 13:15 pm.
Having assessed the situation and decided that the outboard engine was not readily repairable, they set up a tow to Yaverland where the boat had set out from earlier in the day. The tow was transferred to the All-Weather Lifeboat's Y-boat when they reached the beach opposite Yaverland B&SC. Once the angling boat and her crew were safely ashore, the Y-boat was recovered and the Alfred Albert Williams returned to the Offshore Boathouse.
The crew and boat were safely rehoused just after 15:00.
Duration 2.25hrs
18/04/23
30/04/23
18/04/23
Shout #24
RNLB Norman Harvey (Inshore Lifeboat D-778) was launched this afternoon (c16.45) at the request of UK (Solent) Coastguard to assist the local Coastguard Rescue Teams in search for an object (possibly the black hull of an upside-down RIB) that had been reported by a local walker off the Ledge.
The Norman Harvey initially carried
Shout #24
RNLB Norman Harvey (Inshore Lifeboat D-778) was launched this afternoon (c16.45) at the request of UK (Solent) Coastguard to assist the local Coastguard Rescue Teams in search for an object (possibly the black hull of an upside-down RIB) that had been reported by a local walker off the Ledge.
The Norman Harvey initially carried out a shoreline search of the Ledge and having only spotted some corks in a fishing net, they extended the search to Black Rock. Again with nothing seen (they located a football in another fishing net), they continued with their search eventually being released by UK (Solent) Coastguard at 17.45.
The Norman Harvey and crew were safely recovered by 18:10.
Duration 1.5hrs
11/04/23
30/04/23
18/04/23
Shout #23
RNLB Norman Harvey (Inshore Lifeboat D-778) was 'almost' launched this evening (c19.57 Monday 11th April) at the request of UK (Solent) Coastguard to locate someone who had been reported as 'being in the sea off Bembridge Beach'.
In the event, they got no further than getting the trailer wheels wet before the launch was cancell
Shout #23
RNLB Norman Harvey (Inshore Lifeboat D-778) was 'almost' launched this evening (c19.57 Monday 11th April) at the request of UK (Solent) Coastguard to locate someone who had been reported as 'being in the sea off Bembridge Beach'.
In the event, they got no further than getting the trailer wheels wet before the launch was cancelled as the person concerned had been located at home by the Police.
The Norman Harvey was recovered and back in the Inshore Boathouse by 20:10.
11/04/23
11/04/23
11/04/23
Shout #22
The RNLB Alfred Albert Williams (Tamar All-Weather Lifeboat 16-17), having launched for training this evening at 19:00 was tasked by UK (Solent) Coastguard to carry out the medivac of crew member who had a head injury from the cargo ship BBC Island located five and a half miles SE of the Nab Tower.
Weather conditions were not
Shout #22
The RNLB Alfred Albert Williams (Tamar All-Weather Lifeboat 16-17), having launched for training this evening at 19:00 was tasked by UK (Solent) Coastguard to carry out the medivac of crew member who had a head injury from the cargo ship BBC Island located five and a half miles SE of the Nab Tower.
Weather conditions were not very nice (rain and a F7 SSW'erly with a 2m swell). The Alfred Albert Williams reached the Iceland at around 19.55 and the casualty was safely transferred (he made his own way down the boarding ladder wearing a harness). They then headed to Portsmouth Camber where they berthed at 20.35. Having transferred the casualty to an Ambulance, the Alfred Albert Williams departed the Camber at 20.55 and returned safely to the Offshore Boathouse and was rehoused by 21.30.
11/04/23
11/04/23
11/04/23
Shout #21
The RNLB Norman Harvey (Inshore Lifeboat D-778) was launched earlier this afternoon (15.20 Tuesday 11th April at the request of Solent Coastguard to assist the local Coastguard Rescue Teams & Fire Service who trying to locate two teenagers, one of who had become trapped up to their waist in the mud in the same place (Nodes Point
Shout #21
The RNLB Norman Harvey (Inshore Lifeboat D-778) was launched earlier this afternoon (15.20 Tuesday 11th April at the request of Solent Coastguard to assist the local Coastguard Rescue Teams & Fire Service who trying to locate two teenagers, one of who had become trapped up to their waist in the mud in the same place (Nodes Point/Priory Bay area) as yesterday evenings incident.
It did not take them long to reach the area; initially, they transported some of the Fire Service mud rescue 'technicians' and equipment from the Old St Helens Church area to where the casualty had been located by the Coastguard. Subsequently, they helped move both casualties back to the Old St Helens Church area where an Ambulance was waiting. Having then ferried other personnel & equipment back to the Car Park, they then returned to Lane End and where recovered by 17:00.
10/04/23
11/04/23
10/04/23
Shout #20
The RNLB Norman Harvey (Inshore Lifeboat D-778) was launched again today (Monday 10th April at 18.10) at the request of Solent Coastguard to assist the local Coastguard Rescue Teams who trying to locate a casualty who had become trapped up to their waist in the mud in the Nodes Point/Priory Bay area.
It did not take the crew lo
Shout #20
The RNLB Norman Harvey (Inshore Lifeboat D-778) was launched again today (Monday 10th April at 18.10) at the request of Solent Coastguard to assist the local Coastguard Rescue Teams who trying to locate a casualty who had become trapped up to their waist in the mud in the Nodes Point/Priory Bay area.
It did not take the crew long to reach the area; initially, they transported some of the Fire Brigade (who were also involved) mud rescue equipment from the Old St Helens Church area to where the casualty had been located by the Coastguard. Subsequently they helped move the casualty (who had been placed in a Coastguard stretcher) back to the Old St Helens Church area where an Ambulance was waiting.
The crew safely returned and recovered by 19.30.
10/03/23
10/03/23
10/03/23
Shout #19
The RNLB Norman Harvey (Inshore Lifeboat D-778) was launched earlier this afternoon (12.20 pm Monday 10th April) after a Lifeboat crew member walking along the beach spotted a windsurfer in trouble just off Paddock Drive.
Although it was blowing hard Southwestly Force6, it did not take the Norman Harvey long to reach the windsur
Shout #19
The RNLB Norman Harvey (Inshore Lifeboat D-778) was launched earlier this afternoon (12.20 pm Monday 10th April) after a Lifeboat crew member walking along the beach spotted a windsurfer in trouble just off Paddock Drive.
Although it was blowing hard Southwestly Force6, it did not take the Norman Harvey long to reach the windsurfer and get them back safely to the beach.
They then recovered the board/sail and took it back to Lane End where the owner met them.
The crew safely recovered by 12.50 pm.
09/04/23
10/03/23
10/03/23
Shout #18
The RNLB Alfred Albert Williams (Tamar All-Weather Lifeboat 16-17) was launched this evening (April 9th at 19.26) at the request of UK (Solent) Coastguard to carry out a Medivac of a crew member from the P&O Cruise ship ‘Aurora’ located in the area of the Nab Anchorage who it was thought had suffered a Stroke.
Sea conditions w
Shout #18
The RNLB Alfred Albert Williams (Tamar All-Weather Lifeboat 16-17) was launched this evening (April 9th at 19.26) at the request of UK (Solent) Coastguard to carry out a Medivac of a crew member from the P&O Cruise ship ‘Aurora’ located in the area of the Nab Anchorage who it was thought had suffered a Stroke.
Sea conditions were calm with south-easterly winds and half-metre swells. The crew made it quickly to the Aurora at 19.45, but there was then a bit of a delay while she rigged her side pontoon to assist in the transfer to our boat.
Two members of the Lifeboat crew transferred to the Aurora to assist the casualty (who was able to walk) to assist them to our boat at 20:18.
The Alfred Albert Williams then headed to Portsmouth Camber to meet up with an Ambulance. She arrived at 20:45 and having handed the casualty over to the paramedics, she promptly returned to Bembridge and the crew all rehoused safely by 21.30.
03/04/23
10/03/23
03/04/23
Shout #16/17
The RNLB Alfred Albert Williams (Tamar All-Weather Lifeboat 16-17) and the RNLB Norman Harvey (Inshore Lifeboat D-778) were both launched at the request of UK (Solent) Coastguard 3rd April at 21.45 and 21:50 respectively to search for a person or a vessel after a Man Overboard (MOB) device had been triggered to the Southeast
Shout #16/17
The RNLB Alfred Albert Williams (Tamar All-Weather Lifeboat 16-17) and the RNLB Norman Harvey (Inshore Lifeboat D-778) were both launched at the request of UK (Solent) Coastguard 3rd April at 21.45 and 21:50 respectively to search for a person or a vessel after a Man Overboard (MOB) device had been triggered to the Southeast of the Station in the Nab Anchorage.
It did not take long for the Alfred Albert Williams long to reach the search area and start an expanding box search. Conditions offshore were not suitable for the Norman Harvey which remained inshore and conducted a shoreline search in the Whitecliff Bay/Black Rock area. With nothing being found, the UK (Solent) Coastguard stood down both boats, who then promptly returned safely to the Station and recovered by 22.45.
It is further understood that the owner of the MOB device has been located at their home by the Coastguard so it is clear that it was an equipment failure that had transmitted a false alert and a false location.
24/03/23
Shout #15
The Bembridge RNLI's All-Weather Lifeboat (ALB) RNLB Alfred Albert Williams launched at 16:00 at the request of the (Solent) Coastguard to support the local emergency teams in East Cowes (River Medina) with a boat on fire.
The crew aboard the boat were all evacuated safely.
Crews from, Bembridge, Newport, East Cowes and Ventnor were in attendance.
Due to the remote nature and dangers of the boat on fire, the ALB was tasked to act as a safety cover.
The crew safely returned to the station at 19:15.
Duration 3:15hrs
24/03/23
Shout #14
The Bembridge RNLI's All-Weather Lifeboat (ALB) RNLB Alfred Albert Williams launched at 13:00, 24th March at the request of (Solent) Coastguard to support the local emergency teams in Ventnor area but was stood down upon approach to the Dunnose area.
The weather conditions were clear with a moderate 2-meter swell.
**The crew safely returned to the station at 13:45**
23/03/23
Shout #13
The Bembridge RNLI's All-Weather Lifeboat (ALB) RNLB Alfred Albert Williams was launched at 13.20 at the request of the UK (Solent) Coastguard) to assist the local Coastguard, Police teams and RNLI Portsmouth's Atlantic 85 (RNLB Norma T), in the search for a missing person last seen around the Portsmouth Southsea pier area.
When on the scene all Lifeboats quickly set about searching the local shorelines. Luckily after a brief search, the person of interest was safely located and confirmed to be with the Police. With the person being safe, all Lifeboats were stood down and returned to the station.
Weather conditions: good visibility for the search duration however upon returning to the station the weather deteriorated with a cold and rainy return.
The Alfred Albert Williams and crew were safely housed by 15:30.
Duration 2hrs
14/03/23
Shout #12
The Bembridge RNLI's All-Weather Lifeboat (ALB) RNLB Alfred Albert Williams launched at 13:00 at the request of (Solent) Coastguard to support the local emergency teams in the Ventnor area but were stood down upon approach to the Dunnose area.
The weather conditions were clear with a moderate 2-meter swell.
The crew safely returned to the station at 13:45
Duration 45mins
10/03/23
Shout #10
Bembridge RNLI's All-Weather Lifeboat RNLB Alfred Albert Williams was launched at 12.40 pm to locate and assist a woman who had hurt her ankle and had become cut off by the tide at the eastern end of Whitecliff Bay.
Tasked to locate and assist a lady who was out walking at the eastern end of Whitecliff Bay and had hurt her ankle and then had become cut off by the tide. Conditions were pretty benign once past Bembridge Ledge so it did not take them long to reach the area and locate the casualty, who by that time had been joined by her partner who had waded around the promontory to reach her.
The Y-boat was deployed and having assessed the situation ashore recommended a shore evacuation by the Bembridge Coastguard Rescue Team rather than by sea because of the 1m of surf on the beach. The volunteer Coastguard teams were unable to reach the casualties because of the very difficult terrain above where the casualties were located. It was therefore decided that the quickest and safest way to extract the two casualties was by helicopter. Rescue 175 was therefore requested by UK (Solent) Coastguard and was on-scene soon afterwards; the two casualties were taken to Bembridge Airport where they were checked over by the paramedics. In the meantime, a dog belonging to another member of the general public had found his way onto the beach and so was scooped up by the Y-boat crew and taken back to the Offshore Boathouse to be reunited with his owner. The Alfred Albert Williams was rehoused by 3.15pm.
03/03/23
Shout #9
Alfred Albert Williams was launched at 1.57am Friday 3rd March to assist in a medivac of a male passenger with breathing difficulties from the cruise ship Ventura.
RNLB Alfred Albert Williams (Tamar All-Weather Lifeboat 16-17) was launched early this morning (1:57am) at the request of UK (Solent) Coastguard to assist in the medivac of a man with breathing difficulties from the cruise ship Ventura located in the Nab Anchorage.
Conditions were very benign so it did not take them long to get to the Ventura. Coast Guard helicopter Rescue 175 had also been tasked but once the helicopter paramedic had been winched down to the ship and assessed the casualty, it was decided to transfer the casualty to the Alfred Albert Williams and take him into Portsmouth Camber along with the paramedic and the casualties partner. The Alfred Albert Williams reached the Camber at around 4.20am where she was met by an Ambulance. She subsequently returned to Bembridge and was re-housed by 5.30am.
02/03/23
Shouts #7/8
The All-Weather Lifeboat RNLB Alfred Albert Williams was launched at 11.45 am Thursday 2nd March to locate and assist a woman who was trapped in mud at the eastern end of Whitecliff Bay.
RNLB Alfred Albert Williams (Tamar All-Weather Lifeboat 16-17) was launched earlier today (11.50am) at the request of UK (Solent) Coast Guard to locate and assist a woman reported to be stuck in mud in Whitecliff Bay.
Initially RNLB Norman Harvey (D-778) had been requested but it was decided that the Alfred Albert Williams would be better as she provides greater flexibility. Weather conditions were very benign and the tide was dropping. It did not take long to locate the casualty who was stuck in mud up to her waist to the east of the Bay opposite the old Bembridge School (Kingswood) buildings.
The Y-boat was immediately deployed and made its way to the beach. Initially, the Y-boat crew were unable to extract the casualty and so it was decided to await the arrival of the mud rescue team from Ventnor Coast Guard and a paramedic from the Ambulance to check on her medical condition (especially the effects of hydrostatic squeeze) before she was moved. In the event, the Y-boat crew supported by members of the Bembridge Coastal Rescue Team were able to get her clear of the mud to wait for the arrival of the paramedic. Subsequently, the Y-boat was used to ferry some of the Coast Guard volunteers closer to the casualty. Having been assessed by the paramedic the casualty was then transferred to the Alfred Albert Williams and brought back to the Offshore Boathouse for further medical assessment. The Alfred Albert Williams was back available for further tasking by 2pm.
06/02/23
Shouts #5/6
Both Lifeboats were launched early this afternoon (Monday 6th February) to locate a 12-foot unmanned boat reported close to the shore in Whitecliff Bay.
RNLB Alfred Albert Williams (Tamar All-Weather Lifeboat 16-17) and RNLB Norman Harvey (Inshore Lifeboat D-778) were both launched this afternoon. The Norman Harvey at 1.35pm and the Alfred Albert Williams at 2.19pm.
The initial tasking by UK (Solent) Coastguard for the Norman Harvey was to investigate a report of the unmanned 12 foot boat close to the shore in Whitecliff Bay. Conditions were very benign so it did not take them long to reach the vessel which had by that time beached. On investigating, they found the outboard engine was warm, the chart plotter active and there was a fishing line over the side. UK (Solent) Coastguard then tasked them to conduct a search of the bay and requested the Alfred Albert Williams to launch to assist.
At 2.22pm Coastguard Helicopter Rescue 175 (which had also been tasked) identified a possible casualty in the water to the west of the Bay. The Norman Harvey quickly located the unconscious casualty who was immediately transferred to the Alfred Albert Williams and having had Rescue 175's paramedic winched onboard headed at full speed to Portsmouth Camber. Arriving at 2.56pm the casualty was subsequently transferred to an Ambulance. The Alfred Albert Williams then returned to Bembridge - having transferred the paramedic back to Rescue 175 - and was recovered by 4.45pm.
In the meantime, the Norman Harvey, HMS Blazer, Sandown & Shanklin Independent Lifeboat and Selsey's Shannon Class All Weather Lifeboat (13-20) along with a number of other vessels - assisted by Bembridge and Ventnor Coastguard Rescue Teams ashore - carried out further searches in the area as it was not known how many people had been on the angling boat. The Norman Harvey was recovered by 5pm.
22/01/23
Shouts #3/4
Both Bembridge Lifeboats were launched this morning to locate a 21' Fishing Boat with two people onboard that was overdue returning to Ryde Marina after a night's fishing.
RNLB Alfred Albert Williams (Tamar All-Weather Lifeboat 16-17) and RNLB Norman Harvey (Inshore Lifeboat D-778) were both launched this morning at around 11am at the request of UK (Solent) Coastguard to assist the local Coastguard Teams who were searching for a 21’ fishing boat that had left Ryde Marina at 10.20pm last night for a nights fishing. There was a father and son on board and they had been reported overdue by his wife.
While the Lifeboats were launching, a boat was spotted speeding past the Lifeboat Station towards Ryde. The Norman Harvey endeavoured to catch up with it but it was going too fast so they commenced a shoreline search from the station towards Ryde. In the meantime the Alfred Albert Williams started a search towards Shanklin.
Approximately 20 to 30 minutes after both Lifeboats had launched, the fishing boat was sighted making its way into Ryde Marina so both boats returned to Lane End and were recovered by 12pm. A false alarm but with good intentions.
16/01/23
Shout #2
RNLB Alfred Albert Williams) was launched this morning to locate and recover a 65-man life raft activated in error by the Hayling Ferry.
RNLB Alfred Albert Williams (Tamar All-Weather Lifeboat 16-17) was launched this morning (c9.30am) at the request of UK (Solent) Coastguard to locate and recover a 65-man life raft activated in error by the Hayling Ferry. Conditions were not very pleasant (a bitterly cold F6/F7 North Westerly).
Having found the life raft in the region of Nab East buoy, it was Initially taken under a stern tow, however, it took on the water so it was transferred to an alongside tow with a salvage pump keeping it afloat. It was then taken into Langstone Harbour and made fast to the Ferry Pontoon. The Alfred Albert Williams returned to Bembridge on completion and was recovered by midday.
08/01/23
Shout #1
RNLB Alfred Albert Williams was launched late this afternoon to assist in locating a casualty seen by the Brittany Ferry Cotentin 10 nm to the SE of Bembridge.
RNLB Alfred Albert Williams (Tamar All-Weather Lifeboat 16-17) was launched late this afternoon (4.57pm) at the request of UK (Solent Coastguard) to assist in the search for possibly a casualty in the water that had been reported by the Brittany Ferry Cotentin at around 4.30pm close to the main shipping channel. Although the winds had abated (Chimet was showing F4 SW), there was still a 3m swell so it took the Alfred Albert Williams about 45 minutes to reach the search area.
Coastguard Rescue Helicopter 175 was also involved in the search and at around 6.20pm they reported that they had located the casualty. The Alfred Albert Williams was then tasked to recover the casualty and return to Bembridge where they were met by the Police and others. She was recovered by 7.45pm.
