Fishing boat which hit rocks off Orkney ripped in half as debris washes ashore

A Spanish fishing boat that ran aground off Orkney, forcing 17 people to be airlifted to safety, has split in half more than a week after it was abandoned.

A major rescue mission was launched on October 1 after the vessel, Genesis, hit rocks off the Old Man of Hoy.

A rescue helicopter airlifted 17 crew members from the boat after a mayday call was issued requesting assistance with evacuating those on board.

17 people were airlifted from a fishing vessel that ran aground Fraser Retson

The RNLI lifeboat from Stromness, Coastguard helicopters from Sumburgh and Stornoway, and the Kirkwall and St Margaret’s Hope Coastguard Rescue Teams were sent to the scene.

Two other local vessels also responded, as did a maritime patrol aircraft from the Royal Air Force.

All of those airlifted to safety by the helicopter from Stornoway were taken to Kirkwall Airport.

Footage taken in recent days shows the vessel still stuck on the rocks and now split in half. Debris from the boat can be seen scattered nearby.

HM Coastguard has said there is “minimal” diesel on board, with ongoing discussions with its counter-pollution team and the vessel’s owner about potential salvage.

A HM Coastguard spokesperson said: “At around 6.30am on October 1, HM Coastguard responded to reports of a fishing vessel with 17 people on board aground at the Old Man of Hoy, Orkney Islands. No injuries were reported and crew were taken to safety by an HM Coastguard Search and Rescue Helicopter.

“Diesel oil on board is reported as minimal and HM Coastguard’s Counter Pollution team is liaising with the vessel owner and relevant authorities regarding potential salvage. Vessel-related debris identified on shore is being managed by the local authority.”

Orkney Island Council said: “The Council is not involved in the recovery of the vessel, and we understand that recovery efforts are being coordinated by the owners and their appointed local contractor.”