Harwich RNLI's volunteer crew successfully rescued a single male who was in distress after his dinghy capsized off the coast of Felixstowe.

The incident took place on 30 July 2023 and thanks to the timely intervention of the National Coastwatch Institution (NCI) Felixstowe, the charities lifeboat was directed to the casualty, preventing a potential massive search area.

The Harwich RNLI Inshore Lifeboat (ILB) was launched after receiving an emergency call regarding a capsized dinghy with a person in the water. The situation was further exacerbated by the fact that the dinghy was swiftly drifting out to sea.

Fortunately, the NCI team at Felixstowe played a pivotal role by promptly directing the ILB to the exact location of the casualty. Without their crucial assistance, the search area could have been significantly larger, adding complexity and time to the rescue operation.

It's noteworthy to mention that this was a momentous moment for Damon Stuart, one of the volunteers at Harwich RNLI, as this was his first shout in the ILB.

The crew of the Harwich RNLI ILB, like all RNLI crews, are all volunteers. Their unwavering commitment to saving lives at sea is a testament to their dedication and selflessness. Responding to emergencies, often in challenging conditions, requires rigorous training, bravery, and teamwork, and the volunteers at Harwich RNLI exemplify these qualities.

The ILB crew efficiently recovered the man and his capsized dinghy and brought them safely to Felixstowe beach, where he was assessed and provided with the necessary.

The Harwich RNLI and NCI Felixstowe collaboration showcases the importance of effective coordination between different organizations in coastal safety and rescue efforts.