Search called off after boat runs ashore in Aberdeenshire with no one on board

A major search has been called off after a boat ran ashore in Aberdeenshire with no one on board.

Emergency services, including HM Coastguard, were called to Inverbervie Beach on Saturday after reports of a creel boat having run ashore with its engine running.

Police Scotland confirmed the boat was unoccupied when it ran aground.

Crews were alerted at around 11.15am, with a Coastguard helicopter conducting a search alongside rescue teams from Montrose, Stonehaven, Arbroath and Aberdeen.

An incident involving a vessel aground off Inverbervie Beach. STV News

Lifeboats from Arbroath, Montrose and Stonehaven also participated in the search.

On Sunday, HM Coastguard confirmed the search had been called off.

However, Police Scotland said offficers are continuing to carry out inquiries and the missing person remains outstanding.

A spokesperson said: “HM Coastguard responded to an incident involving a fishing vessel aground off Inverbervie Beach, Aberdeenshire, on Saturday, December 20.

“First alerted at around 11.15am, an HM Coastguard helicopter was sent to conduct a search alongside an HM Coastguard fixed wing aircraft, coastguard rescue teams from Montrose, Stonehaven, Arbroath and Aberdeen, as well as lifeboats from Aberdeen, Arbroath, Montrose and Stonehaven. Nearby vessels also assisted.

“Following comprehensive searches, the search has been terminated.”

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Around 11.10am on Saturday, December 20, 2025, police were called to a report that an unoccupied creel boat had run aground on Inverbervie Beach, Inverbervie.

“A multi-agency search was carried out to trace the sole occupant of the boat, including searches of the Lunan Bay and coastal and surrounding areas.

“Officers are continuing to carry out inquiries and the missing person remains outstanding.”