BOAT’S CREW RESCUES FISHERMAN ON ITS MAIDEN VOYAGE

A BOAT’S maiden voyage had a dramatic end when its crew ended up rescuing a stricken fisherman.

Seawake had launched their new disabled friendly RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) called Discovery on Tuesday at Port Dinorwic Marina.

But on their return to Port Penrhyn skipper Jason Zalot and owner Duncan Gilroy were diverted after hearing a mayday call over the radio.

They then went to the aid of a fishing vessel whose engine had failed and ended up towing the boat and grateful captain back to port.

Mr Gilroy said: “Seawake launched their new disabled friendly rib (Rigid Inflatable Boat) Discovery this afternoon at Port Dinorwic Marina. Discovery is a 10.5m boat specially built for Seawake by Navalport Yards in Viana do Castello just north of Porto in Portugal.

“The boat has been designed to accommodate up to three wheelchairs which allows less mobile passengers to enjoy our wildlife tours out to Puffin Island as well as the thrill and excitement these boats can offer. “Skipper Jason Zalot and owner Duncan Gilroy were extremely pleased (or perhaps relieved) that all their planning over the last 12 months had paid dividends.

“Not only is the performance incredible, passengers on the boat will feel very safe and secure. But Discovery’s maiden voyage was not without incident. On returning to the Seawake berth in Port Penrhyn Bangor, skipper Jason Zalot heard an emergency call on the radio.

“A small fishing boat about a mile off Port Penrhyn had got in to difficulty when his engine failed. Being just minutes away Jason called Holyhead Coastguard on the VHF radio and offered assistance. Discovery towed the broken down boat back to its berth in Port Penrhyn.”