Coastguard urges visitors to avoid Ballure Beach as tall ship remains grounded

By ManxRadio Published 23 April 2026

A striking tall ship has run aground on one of Ramsey's most popular beaches, prompting local authorities to issue a safety warning to residents and visitors alike. The La Malouine, a traditional sailing vessel, became stranded on Ballure Beach after being caught out by strong easterly winds, coming to rest in the sands between Queen's Pier and the Arches.

Safety Concerns as Tidal Conditions Shift

The Isle of Man Coastguard is urging the public to stay well clear of the grounded vessel, warning that while the ship is currently stable, its condition could change dramatically with the tide. Crew members have confirmed that beach conditions are highly dynamic, and the ebb and flow of the water may affect the ship's stability in unpredictable ways.

Refloating Timeline

Efforts are underway to refloat the La Malouine, but salvage teams are biding their time for optimal conditions. The operation is unlikely to proceed until mid-May, when tidal patterns are expected to provide the best opportunity to successfully return the vessel to open water without further incident.

What This Means for Visitors

  • Avoid Ballure Beach while refloating operations are planned
  • Do not approach the grounded ship for photographs or exploration
  • Check local coastguard updates for safety information
  • Plan alternative Ramsey beach visits in the interim

For now, those planning to explore Ramsey's waterfront should seek out other scenic spots along the coast while crews work to resolve this maritime situation safely.

Source: Read full article on ManxRadio