Fishermen rescued off Skye as boat hit rocks

By ALISTAIR MUNRO
Published on 18/03/2013 09:48

THREE fishermen have been rescued after their prawn trawler struck rocks south of Skye this morning.

• Crew raised alarm and Mallaig Lifeboat was called to the scene

• Boat taken back to Mallaig Harbour for assessment and repair

Mallaig Lifeboat was called to the scene after the 15-metre Amethyst ran aground at around 5am off the Point of Sleat.

The crew managed to raise the alarm and take to their liferaft.

A number of vessels local to the scene responded to their distress call and the crew were recovered by the fish farm boat Ronja Pioneer.

They were later transferred on to the Mallaig Lifeboat.

The Amethyst was successfully recovered from the rocks and taken to into Mallaig harbour for assessment and repair.

Stornoway Coastguard Watch Manager, Carol Collins said: “This incident highlights how the correct lifesaving apparatus does save lives.

“The three crew of the Amethyst were able to safely transfer into their liferaft which enabled the Ronja Pioneer to recover them.

“We are grateful to the local vessels that responded immediately to the Amethyst’s call for assistance, and for keeping us informed throughout.

“We would also like to acknowledge the work of the Mallaig Fisherman’s Mission, who set up a reception for the three crew men.”

The fishing boats Ocean Trust, Santa Maria and Silver Dawn also went to the scene to assist, as did the Stornoway Coastguard helicopter.