Emergency services have recovered the body of a man off the coast of the Isle of Lewis. A major search operation continues for two remaining fishermen. The multi-agency response began after a fishing vessel with three crew members on board failed to return from sea.
The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) confirmed that the alarm was raised at approximately 9:20 p.m. on Tuesday, October 13, after the boat became overdue. Police Scotland was informed, and local authorities began coordinating response efforts near Port of Ness in Scotland’s Western Isles.
Extensive Search and Rescue Operation Underway
Search efforts have covered vast stretches of water off northern Lewis, focusing heavily on areas north of the Butt of Lewis. The challenging operation involves a coastguard aeroplane, two search-and-rescue helicopters, six coastguard rescue teams, two Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) lifeboats, a local vessel, and Police Scotland personnel.
Western Isles Council convener Kenneth Macleod noted that all three men on board were local to the island. They were operating a creel boat targeting shellfish such as crabs and lobsters between Port of Ness and the Butt of Lewis. Rescuers have faced severe challenges, with local authorities praising the extraordinary efforts of coastguard teams and lifeboat crews operating in brutal marine conditions.
Weather Warnings and Ongoing Inquiries
The disappearance of the vessel coincided with severe weather systems moving across the region. The Met Office issued a yellow weather warning for parts of the Highlands and Western Isles. It forecast gusts reaching up to 70mph as the remnants of transatlantic weather systems impacted northern UK waters.
Police Scotland confirmed that families of the missing crew members have been informed and are receiving dedicated support from officers. While one body has been recovered, formal identification has not yet taken place, and the search for the remaining two fishermen continues.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened off the coast of the Isle of Lewis?
A fishing vessel carrying three crew members failed to return as expected, prompting a major search-and-rescue operation near Port of Ness.
Have any survivors or bodies been found?
Emergency services recovered the body of one man during the search, while two crew members remain unaccounted for as rescue operations persist.
Which agencies are involved in the search?
The operation is led by HM Coastguard and Police Scotland, with assistance from RNLI lifeboats, coastguard rescue teams, aircraft, and local vessels.
What were the weather conditions during the incident?
The search took place amid yellow weather warnings issued by the Met Office, featuring strong winds and heavy gusts reaching up to 70mph in parts of the Western Isles.
