Ramsgate’s all-weather lifeboat, Diamond Jubilee, in action Credit: RNLI/Ramsgate RNLI
A major international rescue operation unfolded off the coast of Ramsgate and Dover this week, as a cargo ship battling a raging fire and complete power loss forced its crew to abandon ship in treacherous conditions.
The ordeal began Tuesday morning, February 18th, when a Mayday call alerted the Coastguard to a fire onboard a cargo vessel. Ramsgate and Dover RNLI lifeboats immediately launched, with Ramsgate’s all-weather lifeboat, the “Diamond Jubilee,” arriving on scene first.
Initially, the cargo ship’s crew attempted to contain the blaze using onboard fire suppression systems. While the fire appeared to be under control, the “Diamond Jubilee” remained on standby as a precaution. However, the situation deteriorated rapidly. Hours later, the fire reignited, and worsening sea conditions, with winds gusting to 23 knots and rough seas, compounded the danger.
The ship, already under tow by two tugs, was deemed too hazardous to remain aboard. The Master of the vessel made the crucial decision to evacuate his 28-member crew into their own lifeboat.
A complex and challenging rescue ensued, involving multiple agencies. The “Diamond Jubilee,” along with Dover RNLI, HM Coastguard helicopters and a fixed-wing aircraft, a Belgian Coastguard helicopter, and French tugs, coordinated to bring the crew to safety.
Initially, a tug rescue craft attempted to transfer the crew, but worsening conditions forced a change in strategy. The “Diamond Jubilee,” with the protection of a tug providing a wind break, moved in close to retrieve the crew directly from their lifeboat. In a tense operation, all 28 exhausted crew members were successfully transferred onto the “Diamond Jubilee” in the face of formidable sea conditions.
Ian Cannon, Coxswain of the “Diamond Jubilee,” said:
“This was a challenging multinational rescue, the crew of the stricken cargo vessel remained calm throughout their ordeal.”
He also praised the ship’s Master, who remained in the lifeboat until all his crew were safe and accounted for.
Upon arrival at Ramsgate Royal Harbour, the rescued crew were met by paramedics and assessed for smoke inhalation. The incident highlights the bravery and dedication of the RNLI volunteers and the coordinated efforts of international rescue agencies in the face of maritime emergencies.