Coastguards are on scene at Ventnor Esplanade where a high-powered RIB has come ashore, with the unusual circumstances of the situation prompting Police to be called.
The incident began shortly before 03:20 this morning (Bank Holiday Monday) when the activation of an emergency locator beacon led to the scrambling of Coastguard Rescue 175 and Bembridge RNLI’s All Weather Lifeboat.
By the time the search and rescue assets were on scene, several miles off the coast of the Isle of Wight, the RIB had managed to anchor just off Ventnor Esplanade.
It’s understood the boat began to take on water and, in a panic, the crew of 3 headed for the shore.
Ventnor Coastguard Rescue Team arrived on the Esplanade at 03:52 and located the 3 casualties, who have since been taken to a nearby hotel to warm up and recuperate.
But the circumstances of this morning’s incident have led to Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary being called out.
Police have attended the Esplanade as a probe is launched as to why the RIB was out at sea in the middle of the night in the first place.
It’s claimed the 3 men were fishing, with rods and associated equipment seen being removed from the vessel.
The RIB’s anchor has failed and the boat has now come ashore on the beach, having initially been anchored beyond the rocks at a lower tide.
It is understood the vessel will be taken around to Ventnor Haven at high tide. The assistance of local fishermen is being utilised.
What we’re they hoping to catch, ‘Square grouper’?
Most fisherman couldn’t catch a cold, yet alone
some fish.
It is too easy for anyone to get in a boat and take to the
seas.
Too many people think they are able seamen.
That is one serious bit of kit but not ideal for ‘fishing’
Makes one wonder if they were using it to
transport persons from France.
Probably picking up Charlie