A call-out of Largs Lifeboat resulted in a full scale search for a reported boat in trouble south of Wee Cumbrae.
The RNLI launched on Tuesday at 4.40pm in response to a report of a Mayday indicating a vessel requiring immediate assistance in a position.
However, it turned out to be a false alarm.
A lifeboat spokesman said: "We commenced a search of the area being joined by Troon lifeboat and the Royal Navy vessel HMS Ramsey.
"A thorough search of the area was carried out by these three units with negative results until they were stood down at 6.15pm.
"A Mayday message indicates a real and immediate danger to life."
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