Lough Derg RNLI volunteers assist cruiser with engine failure

Lough Derg RNLI volunteers assist 5 people on a 32ft cruiser with engine failure

On Tuesday 16 June, Valentia Coast Guard requested Lough Derg RNLI lifeboat to launch to assist 5 people on a 32ft motor cruiser, with engine failure and at anchor north of Illaunmore.

At 1:05pm Lough Derg RNLI lifeboat Jean Spier launched with volunteer helm Chris Parker and crew James Corballis and Owen Cavanagh on board. The wind was south-westerly, Force 2 to 3. Visibility was good.

At 1:14pm the lifeboat arrived on scene. All on board the casualty vessel were safe and unharmed and wearing their lifejackets.

Given the location, close to a main navigation route, and the possibility of another callout should the vessel be left where it was and with no other traffic on the water at the time, the helm made the decision to assist the casualty vessel to the closest safe harbour at Dromineer. The lifeboat informed the Coast Guard of this decision.

An RNLI volunteer transferred across to the casualty vessel and explained the plan before he prepared the cruiser for an astern tow. The RNLI crew recovered the anchor when instructed to by the lifeboat.

At 2:10pm, the casualty vessel was safely tied alongside at Dromineer Harbour. At 2:15pm the lifeboat departed the scene to return to station. The lifeboat was washed down and refuelled and ready for service at 2:38pm

Commenting on the callout, Christine O’Malley, Lifeboat Operations Manager at Lough Derg RNLI said: ‘We would remind boat users to ensure you check you engine and fuel before embarking on your journey. If you get into difficulty or see somebody else in trouble on the water, dial 999 or 112 or use VHF radio Channel 16 and ask for the Coast Guard.’