RNLI - Shipwreck Log

The 18 meter long fishing vessel Prospect BF573 went aground just outside the Lerwick harbour, Shetland Islands. The Prospect went hard aground on the rocks locally known as Skibby Baa while going full speed at low tide. The impact caused severe hull damage and water ingress. The crew requested assistance with the Shetland Coastguard, Lerwick RNLI lifeboat, and other rescue vessels responding. The rescuers placed six pumps on board the fishing vessel while it floated free on the rising tide. The Prospect was taken under tow by the RNLI lifeboat and proceeded towards the harbour. However, the pumps could not keep up with the flooding and the Prospect began to list over. The Prospect foundered bow first. No reports of injuries. Authorities are monitoring the site for pollution. No reports if the vessel will be recovered or salvaged.

Fish Trawler Prospect BF 573 Sinks in Lerwick Harbour (UK) (worldmaritimenews.com)
Four crew rescued from sinking fishing boat Prospect after it runs aground at Shetland’s Lerwick Harbour (dailyrecord.co.uk)

Gert Jan

July 26, 2013 Paul Hancock

The 36 meter long, 312 ton fishing vessel Gert Jan went aground on the Newcombe Sands near Lowestoft, England. The Lowestoft RNLI responded to the scene and found the tide pushing the Gert Jan further onto the sandbank. The crew quickly attached a towline and with the help of the fishing vessel’s engines, managed to pull free the vessel. Both vessels proceeded to Lowestoft. No reports of injures, damage or pollution. The Gert Jan was en route to Lowestoft from Den Helder before going aground.

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Astrid

July 24, 2013 Paul Hancock

The 42 meter long, 2-masted sailing vessel Astrid went aground and sank in the Irish Sea near Kinsale, Cork County, Ireland. The Astrid was en route to take part in a tall-ship regatta when it suffered engine failure. The disabled sailing vessel signaled the other nearby vessels it was in trouble. The vessel continue to drift towards shore until it crashed onto the rocks off the Sovereign Islands and began to take on water. The Astrid crew requested assistance with the RNLI launching several lifeboats and two helicopters to the scene. Another vessel arrived on scene and rescued 12 crew while the RNLI safely rescued the remaining 18 crew. No reports of injuries. Reports state the crew was being treated for hypothermia and shock. The other vessels taking part of the regatta were unable to pull the Astrid off the rocks. The waves pounded the Astrid on the rocks until it broke-in-two and sank. Later reports stated that 23 teenagers and 7 adults were on board the Astrid.