1256/2025 - Vessel search

30/04/2025

Alerted by Guernsey Coastguard at 0425 hrs (all times local) to search for a missing vessel, thought to be between Jersey and Guernsey.  Guernsey Coastguard had received a faint radio transmission from the casualty vessel on a DF Bearing of 195 degrees from the aerial at Guernsey Airport. 

Coming off blocks at 0515 hrs, Lions' Pride took off from runway 09 at 0525 hrs, turning right onto a heading of 195 degrees.  Guernsey Coastguard initially requested a search south towards Les Roches Douvres and updated that the vessel’s name had been established, and that there was one person on board.

The vessel was quickly spotted on the Wescam using FLIR with a person on deck clearly waving, confirmed visually in improving daylight. The position was relayed to Guernsey Coastguard and the Jersey Lifeboat the Albert Pinel was diverted to that position.  Lions' Pride maintained an orbit over the casualty vessel while the crew of the Albert Pinel made contact with the casualty.

With a tow established from the Albert Pinel, Lions' Pride was stood down at 0550 hrs, returning to Guernsey and landing on runway 09 at 0555 hrs, where it was refuelled and made ready for service.