The Lough Derg RNLI lifeboat was called out last night to assist two people after their cruiser suffered engine problems.
The alarm was raised at around 9.00pm after the Irish Coast Guard received a report that a 20ft vessel had suffered engine failure. The vessel was reported to be at anchor south of Terryglass Bay on the eastern shore of the lake.
The volunteer crew launched their lifeboat at 9.05pm and had the vessel in sight soon afterwards. It was at anchor close to shore south of Gortmore Point on the eastern shore of the lake. Using local knowledge and onboard navigation tools, the lifeboat steered a safe course to the cruiser.
Once alongside, an RNLI volunteer transferred across to the casualty vessel. The two people on board were safe and unharmed and wearing lifejackets. The vessel’s anchor was off the starboard stern and holding firm.
Given the isolated location, progressive nightfall and the fact that the vessel was floating with but with engine failure, the helm made the decision to take the vessel under tow to the nearest safe haven at Terryglass Harbour.
At 9.46pm, with an RNLI volunteer and skipper remaining on board, the lifeboat took the vessel under an astern tow. At 10.25pm the casualty vessel was safely tied alongside at Terryglass Harbour.
The lifeboat departed the scene and was back at station at 11.10pm.
Christine O’Malley, Lifeboat Operations Manager at Lough Derg RNLI, advises boat users to ‘make sure your engine is serviced before you set out and if in difficulty dial 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard’.
The operation was mounted by watch officers at the Irish Coast Guard’s marine rescue coordination centre on Valentia Island in Kerry.