A family of 5 who are thought to have struck Bembridge Ledge in a rigid inflatable boat were assisted by Bembridge RNLI earlier this evening (Sunday).
Solent Coastguard requested the launch of the inshore lifeboat (ILB) at just before 18:05 to assist with a 7m RIB which had set off a red flare close to the Bembridge Ledge Cardinal Mark.
On reaching the RIB – which had 2 adults and 3 children onboard – it transpired that the family came from Southampton but had badly damaged the bottom end of the outboard engine having probably hit the rocks of Bembridge Ledge.
Having ascertained that there were no injuries, Bembridge ILB took the RIB under tow to Bembridge Harbour.
The casualty vessel was taken to the visitors pontoon where Ventnor Coastguard Rescue Team were awaiting to provide assistance and advice.
The ‘Norman Harvey’ lifeboat returned to Lane End and was recovered by 19:30.
Flare deployment….???
7m RIB set off a red flare…!!! What a clever RIB!
What’s up with these so called mariners don’t they look at charts and tide tables to see where this ledge is so many boats hitting it this year
All the gear no idea