A man who survived a capsized boat by clinging to a cool box for over four hours was rescued off the coast of North Wales on Thursday. The incident occurred near Porthmadog when a rigid inflatable boat failed to return to shore and was later found overturned on a sandbank with its occupant missing.

The search for the man involved multiple lifeboats, coastguards, and a rescue helicopter. Rescue teams eventually located the individual several miles away at Harlech beach, where he had been carried by the tide while holding onto the cool box. He was suffering from severe cold-water immersion upon rescue and was airlifted by the HM Coastguard search and rescue helicopter to a hospital for treatment and evaluation.

Representatives from RNLI Criccieth Lifeboat said the man’s survival was remarkable given the extended time he spent in the water. They estimated he had been adrift for more than four hours after the ebbing tide swept him out of the estuary. The conditions posed significant risks due to cold-water exposure.

Chris Fisher, lifeboat operations manager at Criccieth RNLI, emphasized the dangers of the sea and urged all boat users to take essential safety measures. He advised wearing appropriate lifejackets and carrying dependable communication devices, such as a VHF radio or a fully charged mobile phone in a waterproof case.

Authorities highlighted that the incident serves as a reminder of the unforgiving nature of maritime environments and the importance of preparation to prevent similar emergencies. The man’s prompt rescue and subsequent medical care underscore the coordinated efforts of maritime search and rescue teams in the region.