Discover the Birka-Gotland: Ratings & Maritime News

On December 8, 2023, at precisely 11:40 p.m., the dedicated sea rescuers from RS Räfsnäs received an urgent call regarding a medical emergency on board the passenger vessel 'Birka Gotland'. In a swift response, the lifeboat 'Ilse Sanne', crewed by three volunteer rescuers, set off immediately to assist. Upon their arrival, two of the rescuers boarded the ship to stabilize the patient and prepare for a critical evacuation. Coinciding with this, a pilot boat from the Swedish Maritime Administration arrived, carrying medical personnel ready to assist. The team successfully transferred the patient onto the 'Ilse Sanne', which then headed back to shore, where an ambulance awaited to provide further medical care. The heroic rescuers returned to their station at 1:00 a.m. on December 9, completing a vital mission during the challenging nighttime hours.

On the evening of November 12, 2025, just after 8 p.m., the Räfsnäs rescue station received an urgent call regarding a medical emergency aboard the vessel 'Birka Gotland.' In a swift response, five dedicated volunteer sea rescuers swiftly boarded the lifeboat 'Rescue Vialla' and navigated towards the distressed ship. Four of these rescuers made their way on board through the pilot gate to deliver timely medical assistance. The affected individual was carefully placed on a stretcher and transported down to the deck of the 'Rescue Vialla.' The lifeboat then set sail for Furusund, where an ambulance was waiting to facilitate further medical intervention at a hospital. By around 10 p.m., the 'Rescue Vialla' successfully returned to its station, highlighting the efficiency and bravery of the local rescue team in a critical situation.