What Crew Members Say About Fri-Ocean

The dedicated volunteers of Tobermory RNLI have received high praise for their remarkable 31-hour rescue operation involving the grounded vessel 'Fri Ocean' off the east coast of Mull. RNLI Operations Director George Rawlinson commended the crew for their unwavering commitment, perseverance, and professionalism throughout this prolonged mission. Special acknowledgment was given to Tobermory's full-time Coxswain Andrew McHaffie for his exceptional leadership and resource coordination during the operation. Additionally, Station Mechanic Jock Anderson was highlighted for his crucial role aboard the casualty vessel, ensuring the safety of both crews from the risks of CO2 poisoning. This significant rescue operation, the longest in the station's history, began in the early hours of June 14, 2023. The Severn class lifeboat, Elizabeth Fairlie Ramsey, was launched shortly after 6 AM to assist the vessel stranded approximately two and a half miles south of Tobermory. The volunteer crew engaged in extensive pumping operations throughout the day, patiently standing by in hopes of freeing the vessel. Later that evening, after tireless efforts, the 'Fri Ocean' was successfully refloated and escorted to the safety of Salen Bay, where Tobermory's lifeboat remained on standby until daylight. The following morning, the lifeboat provided escort to the cargo ship towards Oban, working collaboratively with Oban RNLI to anchor the vessel securely in Oban Bay for subsequent investigations and damage assessment. Lifeboat Operations Manager Ian Stevens remarked, 'This operation exemplifies exceptional teamwork and showcases the dedication of our volunteers who generously commit their time to save lives at sea. I’m thrilled to see Andrew and Jock’s incredible efforts acknowledged by the RNLI.'

Authorities have initiated an investigation into the circumstances that led to the grounding of the 300-foot cargo ship, 'Fri Ocean,' on the Isle of Mull. This incident occurred in broad daylight under favorable weather conditions, raising questions about the events leading up to the mishap. The 'Fri Ocean,' which was en route from Fort William to Sweden carrying a cargo of timber, navigated down the Sound of Mull before running aground on the rocky shoreline just south of Tobermory at approximately 6 AM last Friday. As the ship is laden with fuel, there are heightened concerns about potential pollution, especially with adverse weather conditions predicted to impact the area shortly thereafter.

In a remarkable rescue operation, the coaster 'Fri Ocean' was successfully refloated and guided safely into Oban Harbour on June 15, following a grounding incident the previous day. The vessel had been anchored in the harbour since early morning on June 15, around 6 a.m., while awaiting a thorough inspection. Throughout June 14, the Tobermory lifeboat remained on standby, providing critical assistance as temporary patching efforts were underway. On the morning of June 15, the Oban lifeboat took the lead in maneuvering the 'Fri Ocean' into the bay, as maritime traffic was halted to ensure its safe passage. Now situated off the Isle of Kerrera, the coaster awaits damage surveys and an investigation by the Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB). The dedicated volunteer crew of the Tobermory lifeboat returned home at 12:45 p.m., and by 2:00 p.m., the lifeboat was refueled and ready for further service, marking over 31 hours since their initial launch. For comprehensive coverage including photos and videos of this operation, visit the following links: [For Argyll](http://forargyll.com/2013/06/31-hour-shout-tobermory-lifeboats-longest-ever-ending-in-joint-operation-with-oban-lifeboat/) and [RNLI](http://rnli.org/Pages/Video-Details.aspx?VideoItemID=bzX26ZPA).