On Sunday, 14 June, 2026, at 14:08hrs Exmouth RNLI were tasked by H.M. Coastguard to assist a fishing vessel with a fouled prop. Three volunteer crew members launched our inshore, D-class lifeboat, George Bearman II, and proceeded to the location of the stricken vessel, which was approximately 1 kilometre south-south-west of Straight Point. Our all-weather Shannon lifeboat, 13-03 R and J Welburn, and crew were also put on immediate readiness at this time, until a full assessment of the situation was available.
Arriving on scene the Exmouth RNLI D-class crew found that the prop of the casualty vessel had become caught on a pot marker. Another passing vessel, a rigid inflatable boat, had begun assisting the casualty boat. Following communication with both crews, the Exmouth RNLI lifeboat remained at the scene and provided safety surveillance whilst the prop was freed by a diver; after which the vessel was able to continue its passage with no further difficulties.
Our crew and inshore lifeboat then returned to the station, where the lifeboat was washed down, refuelled and made ready for the next call.