At 13:03 on Thursday 30th August 2024, the Jersey Lifeboat Association’s (JLA) inshore lifeboat, Albert Pinel, was paged to respond to a medical emergency near the Violet buoy. The Albert Pinel was launched at 13:12 from St Helier and proceeded eastward toward a 50-foot sailing catamaran located northeast of the Brett beacon. With calm sea conditions, the JLA lifeboat reached the casualty vessel in 14 minutes, maintaining an average speed of around 46 knots.
Upon arrival, the crew found the vessel’s skipper collapsed on the flybridge and in a severe state of distress. The JLA crew quickly assessed the situation, secured the casualty in a stretcher, and planned for immediate extraction back to St Helier. The Ports of Jersey’s Pilot Vessel, Rival, arrived on the scene to assist with the delicate transfer of the casualty onboard.
Given the critical nature of the situation, the Albert Pinel returned to St Helier at speed, where crews from Jersey Ambulance Service, Jersey Fire & Rescue Service, and the Jersey Coastguard were on standby. The casualty was promptly handed over to the ambulance crew for further assessment, stabilisation, and transport to the hospital. The entire operation, from launch to handover, was completed in approximately 48 minutes.
The Jersey Lifeboat Association extends its gratitude to the Jersey Coastguard for their swift response, professionalism, and support during this operation. We also thank all the crews involved or who assisted in this task. The JLA wishes the casualty a full and speedy recovery.
Photo credit – Graeme Delanoe
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