Lifeboat assists stricken vessel on lake

On Thursday, Valentia Coast Guard requested Lough Derg RNLI lifeboat launch to assist a lone skipper on a 27ft motor cruiser with engine failure at a location south of Dromaan. RNLI volunteers were informed that the skipper had dropped anchor, and that it was holding.

Lough Derg RNLI lifeboat launched and at 11.10am, having established that there was clear water port side and stern of the casualty vessel, the lifeboat came alongside to speak to the skipper, who was safe and unharmed and wearing their lifejacket. An RNLI volunteer transferred across to the casualty vessel.

Given the remote location, the known hazards at the scene, the helm made the decision to take the vessel under an astern tow to the safety of Dromineer Harbour, where RNLI shore crew and a team of marine engineers were waiting to assist. At 11.24am, after setting up lines and weighing anchor, the lifeboat had the casualty vessel under an astern tow.

At 11.59pm, the casualty vessel was safely tied alongside and the lifeboat returned to the station.

Commenting on the callout, Christine O’Malley, Lifeboat Operations Manager at Lough Derg RNLI, said: "Thankfully the skipper was wearing his 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."