1315/2025 - Overdue vessel - French coast

20/09/2025

The Service was requested by Guernsey Coastguard at 1923 hrs (all times local) to assist Jobourg MRCC with a search for an overdue vessel, described as an 8m black and yellow sailing vessel, which had been due into Dielette, but was overdue. Last reported communication had indicated the vessel may have suffered engine failure, but had since lost contact.

Initial contact from Jobourg MRCC to Guernsey Coastguard had indicated they wanted CIAS to conduct a search over a very significant area covering between the French coast and to the west of Alderney and also a large area north and east of Jerbourg. Following clarification between Guernsey Coastguard and Jobourg MRCC it was agreed that CIAS would cover the area to the west of the French Coast out to the west of Alderney. 

Coming off blocks at 2005 hrs, Lions’ Pride departed runway 27 at 2015 hrs, turning right to head to a search start point east of St Sampson's and was on task at 2025 hrs.  Working search legs of 19nm NE/SW with 1nm separation, creeping west, a search of the area was carried out using the Wescam.  

Visibility was good, so good saturation of the area using the Wescam was possible.  Having completed 12 search legs and been airborne for three hours, but with nothing of significance spotted, Lions' Pride confirmed to Jobourg MRCC and was stood down to return to Guernsey to refuel.  Landing at 2335 hrs, on blocks 2340 hrs.