Lifeboat called out to yacht in distress

On Monday Valentia Coast Guard requested Lough Derg RNLI lifeboat to launch to assist a lone skipper on a 22ft yacht with engine failure and drifting towards shoals inside the Hagan Rock. RNLI volunteers were informed that the skipper had dropped anchor, but it was dragging. They were also given a description of the vessel, and to note that the mast was down for overwintering and lying overhanging the bow and stern on the deck.

At 1.56pm Lough Derg RNLI lifeboat Jean Spier launched and soon they could see the casualty vessel inside the Hagan, lying close to the rocky shore on the County Clare shoreline. Using local knowledge and the navigational tools on board, the navigator gave the helm a safe course to steer to the stricken vessel. Charts indicated that the casualty vessel was positioned with considerable hazards at its bow and stern. The lifeboat took a safe and slow approach with a volunteer taking soundings off the bow.

Given the remote location, the known hazards at the scene and the possibility of initiating another rescue callout should the casualty vessel be left where it was, the helm made the decision to take the vessel under an astern tow and across the narrow stretch of lake to a safe haven at Kilgarvin Harbour, on the Tipperary shoreline.

An RNLI volunteer transferred across to the yacht to prepare it to be taken under tow and lift the anchor when instructed. The casualty vessel was safely tied alongside at Kilgarvin Harbour.

Commenting on the callout, Christine O’Malley, Lifeboat Operations Manager at Lough Derg RNLI, said: “Thankfully the skipper was wearing their lifejacket, had dropped anchor and called for help as soon as they encountered difficulties. We would remind anyone planning a trip on the lake that if you get into difficulty or see somebody else in trouble on the water, dial 999 or 112 or use VHF radio CH 16 and ask for the Coast Guard.”