Eighty Evacuated as Chain Ferry Breaks Down on Lake Windermere
Achain ferry carrying around 80 passengers was forced to abandon ship after engine failure struck on Lake Windermere today.
Multi-Agency Rescue Response
HM Coastguard was alerted at 12.45pm on 27 May and swiftly dispatched Arnside, Furness, and Ulverston rescue teams, plus the independent lifeboat. The Lake Wardens, Cumbria Police, ambulance service, and Cumbria 1 & Rescue Service joined the emergency operation.
Passengers Safely Taken Ashore
Thankfully, no injuries were reported. Another vessel ferried all passengers to safety while the ferry remained stranded.
Engineering Repairs and Vessel Out of Service
The Maritime & Coastguard Agency surveyor ordered the chain ferry out of service pending a full investigation. An engineer performed temporary fixes, allowing the ferry to dock. All vehicles have been safely removed.
This dramatic incident highlights the unpredictable dangers even on peaceful Lake Windermere.
