A major search and rescue operation is continuing for a young fisherman who vanished from the coast of north-east Scotland just days before Christmas.
Discovery of the Unmanned Vessel
Ben Dowie, a 28-year-old from Carnoustie near Angus, has not been seen since Saturday, 20 December 2025. The alarm was raised after his creel fishing boat, the Sea Eagle AH18, was discovered run aground on Inverbervie Beach in Aberdeenshire. Crucially, the vessel's engine was still running when it was found unmanned.
Mr Dowie was known to fish for lobster out of Arbroath aboard his boat. The concerning discovery triggered an immediate and large-scale response from emergency services.
Large-Scale Multi-Agency Search Effort
The search for the missing man involved a significant force. Police Scotland coordinated the operation, which saw multiple aircraft deployed, including a search and rescue helicopter. Coastguard rescue teams from Montrose, Stonehaven, Arbroath, and Aberdeen rushed to the scene.
They were joined by RNLI lifeboat crews from Arbroath, Montrose, and Stonehaven, while numerous local fishing boats also assisted in scouring the coastal waters. The search focused on the area around Lunan Bay and the wider coastline.
Community Tributes as Physical Search is Paused
After nine days of intensive searching, the physical operation has been stood down. However, Police Scotland have confirmed that the missing person investigation remains very much active, with officers continuing their enquiries.
In the wake of his disappearance, heartfelt tributes have poured in from the local community, describing Ben as a "true gent" and a "lovely boy." A spokesperson for Arbroath RNLI stated: "Unfortunately at this time the casualty has not been located and our thoughts go out to family, friends, the local fishing community and all involved. We fly our flag at half mast for the respect of our local fishing community at these sad and difficult times."
The fishing communities of Angus and Aberdeenshire now wait anxiously for any news regarding the whereabouts of the much-missed fisherman.
