Dramatic Lifeboat Rescue After Gas Blast on Portsmouth Boat
RNLI Lifeboat Scrambles to Scene
The RNLI’s All-Weather Lifeboat Alfred Albert Williams launched at dusk to rescue a man badly burnt in a gas explosion on his 26-foot boat in Portsmouth Harbour. The Tamar-class lifeboat was called out by Solent Coastguard at around 5pm to assist in a medical evacuation.
Coordination with Coastguard Helicopter
Arriving near Hardway Sailing Club at 5:20pm, the lifeboat crew worked alongside Coastguard Rescue Helicopter 175. After launching the nimble Y-boat, they first checked a nearby vessel that had fired a red flare but quickly discovered it was unrelated.
Casualty Rescue Challenges
It took until 5:40pm to locate the correct boat, closer inshore. The Y-boat crew initially advised a helicopter winch evacuation, but tricky conditions ruled it out. Instead, the casualty was recovered to shore by the Portsmouth Coastguard Rescue Team’s mud rescue crew, assisted by Y-boat personnel.
Safe Return After Successful Mission
The Y-boat rejoined Alfred Albert Williams, which then headed back to Bembridge and was safely berthed by 7:15pm. The quick coordination ensured the injured man received prompt medical attention after the terrifying gas blast at sea.
