Coastguard, lifeboats and CalMac ferry called to rescue fishing boat from sinking near Iona

A fishing boat with three people onboard which began sinking sparked an emergency response from Coastguard, lifeboat and CalMac ferry crews.

HM Coastguard said the alarm was raised around 8.15am on Friday after a vessel reported it was taking on water about five nautical miles south of Iona.

A search and rescue helicopter from Prestwick was sent to the scene, as well as RNLI all-weather lifeboats from Oban and Islay.

A call was sent out to nearby vessels to assist and CalMac ferry MV Loch Buie responded, which meant the service between Fionnphort and Iona was suspended.

Rescue crews said there were no reports injuries or of anyone missing.

An HM Coastguard statement read: “A fishing vessel with three people on board reported to be taking on water about five nautical miles south of Iona is being assisted safely to Oban, in a response coordinated by HM Coastguard.

“The alarm was raised at about 8.15am on December 13.

“The HM Coastguard search and rescue helicopter from Prestwick was sent as well as RNLI all-weather lifeboats from Oban and Islay.

“A broadcast was issued requesting nearby vessels to assist.

“The fishing vessel is being supported back to land with the assistance of both lifeboats.

“There are no reports of injuries or anyone missing.”

A post on X by CalMac read: “Due to the vessel assisting the Coastguard, this service has been suspended until further notice.”

In an update at 12.20pm on Friday, CalMac said: “The vessel has been stood down by the Coastguard and is now on passage back to Fionnphort.

“A sailing will depart Fionnphort at approx. 12.35pm and Iona at approx 12.45pm.

“Normal timetable will resume with the 2.15pm departure from Fionnphort.”