The Lough Derg RNLI lifeboat has towed a 27ft motor cruiser to safety after it suffered engine failure off the Clare shore of the lake this afternoon.
The vessel, with just one person on board, got into difficulty south of Dromaan Harbour near Whitegate in East Clare.
After being tasked by the Irish Coast Guard, the Lough Derg RLNI crew launched from their based at Dromineer, Co Tipperary at 11.00am. Before launching, lifeboat volunteers were informed that the skipper had dropped anchor, and that it was holding.
The lifeboat made its way across the lake and reached the scene around 11:10am. The crew carried out an assessment of the situation and having established that there was clear water port side and stern of the casualty vessel, the lifeboat came alongside to speak to the skipper. The sole occupant of the vessel was found to be safe and wearing their lifejacket.
An RNLI volunteer transferred across to the casualty vessel and 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.
An RNLI shore crew and a team of marine engineers were waiting to assist the casualty vessel at Dromineer Harbour.
As the lifeboat approached Dromineer, the helm asked for the tow line to be shortened. To counter the effect of the wind before the vessels entered the harbour, the lifeboat helmed high and close to weather, instructing the casualty vessel to keep its rudder centred and steer astern of the lifeboat.
At 11:59pm, the casualty vessel was safely tied alongside. The lifeboat departed the scene and was back at station at 12:09pm.
The operation was mounted and managed by watch officers at the Irish Coast Guard’s marine rescue coordination centre on Valentia Island in Kerry.
Commenting on the callout, Lifeboat Operations Manager at Lough Derg RNLI Christine O’Malley 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.’
