The lifeboat launched following a report of two swimmers believed to be in difficulties off the Hotel Continental, Whitstable. They were approximately 300 yards offshore, near the yellow speed limit buoys, and one was seen to be waving for help.

On arrival nothing untoward was seen, so the lifeboat commenced a search downtide from the reported position.

Meanwhile, Herne Bay Coastguard had arrived at Tankerton Slopes, and reported that two of the council lifeguards from Tankerton had just come ashore at their lookout, following a training swim from the Long Beach. Shortly afterwards, it was confirmed that these were the two people reported to be in difficulties. The one who had been waving stated that he had his arm out of the water not to call for help, but because he had been stung by a jellyfish.

The lifeboat therefore returned to station.