Cruiser aground at Urquhart Castle, Loch Ness

Press Release: Date: 21/06/2011

Cruiser seized after running aground.

Loch Ness RNLI Crew launched at midday on 21 June 2011, to a report of cruiser aground adjacent to the pier at Urquhart Castle, Loch Ness.

Research and tourist vessel, Deepscan, under the command of John Minshull, had held position until the arrival of the Loch Ness RNLI lifeboat crewed by Martin Douglas, Stuart Latham and Matt McWhir.

RNLI Crew member Matt McWhir was placed aboard the casualty vessel and rigged a tow to the stern of the boat, protecting the cruiser's propulsion during the removal from the shingle beach.

The vessel and crew were recovered to deep water but, against advice, the skipper attempted to berth at the castle pier once more.

The vessel failed in it's attempt and narrowly averted being blown aground again by the NE winds and almost pulling two of it's crew members into the water.

The skipper was finally persuaded to head for a safer berthing and RNLI crew member Matt McWhir had to recover several trailing lines from the water that may have fouled the cruiser's propeller.

The Loch Ness RNLI lifeboat recovered the two stranded crew from the pier and escorted the vessel to Urquhart Harbour where it was met by Inverness CG team and Police.

RNLI Loch Ness volunteer Matt McWhir says: 'The skipper refused safety advice and his crew were severely lacking in skill and judgement.'

RNLI Helmsman Martin Douglas added: 'An unpleasant situation became a potentially very serious incident when the skipper engaged full astern whilst two of his crew members were attempting to tie lines to the pier. Berthing is a tricky business and the weather and choice of berth should be considered along with the experience of the crew.'

A significant presence from the Inverness Coastguard team was followed by officers from Northern Constabulary and the owner of the hire company, who reclaimed the vessel.

Aberdeen MRCC directed the operation and coordinated resources.

Author: Martin Douglas, Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer

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